On June 21, rival political groups in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) clashed during a protest against a bill that could permit President Felix Tshisekedi to remain in power after his second term ends. The protest, organized by the opposition coalition C64 outside the parliament building in the capital Kinshasa, was broken up by police using tear gas after confrontations with pro-government activists, according to AFP.
Among those injured was prominent opposition leader Martin Fayulu. Video footage showed Fayulu with blood around his eye and on his shirt as supporters came to his aid. Another opposition figure, Prince Epenge, also sustained minor injuries.
The confrontation occurs amid multiple crises in the DRC, including a new Ebola outbreak and the escalation of a decades-long conflict with the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group.
The apparent move to extend President Tshisekedi’s tenure has added to instability. His second five-year term is scheduled to end in 2028. The 62-year-old leader recently stated he would agree to lead the conflict-ridden country for a third term “if the people so desire,” following a referendum on constitutional reforms.
Although the DRC constitution forbids amending presidential term limits, a bill under consideration in Parliament would allow the president to modify these regulations in cases of “major dysfunction” paralyzing state institutions, and could be enacted after a referendum.
The main opposition parties, which have been divided in recent years, united in May under the C64 banner to protest what they call Tshisekedi’s attempt to hold onto power. The coalition described the proposed changes as a “serious threat” to the country’s stability.
