The proposed constitutional overhaul championed by the government in the Democratic Republic of the Congo continues to fuel intense debate. While revival churches actively endorse the plan, the Catholic Church urges careful reflection and a commitment to safeguarding the democratic achievements of the past.

This division has emerged as the revision process advances, with national deputies recently approving a bill that would pave the way for a referendum.

Revival churches line up behind the reform

Leaders of revival churches have aligned with the authorities’ view that the 2006 constitution no longer fits the country’s institutional landscape.

Archbishop Evariste Ejiba Yamampia, who heads the revival churches in the Congo, argues that the revision could unlock better governance and accelerate development.

“It’s about the sovereignty of our territory. It also touches on governance. Thirdly, it concerns development and the well-being of our people. It will bring change because it will allow us to properly enjoy the nation’s riches. We can eliminate budget-consuming entities,” he explains.

Catholic Church urges protection of democratic foundation

The National Episcopal Conference of Congo (Cenco) has yet to issue a formal stance. However, the Council of the Apostolate of Catholic Laity in Congo (CALCC) has reiterated the church’s steadfast support for the current constitution, viewing it as the bedrock of the country’s young democracy.

“The church has always maintained that the current constitution is the cornerstone of our young democracy. It has also consistently called for dialogue and wisdom. The Catholic Church has regularly reminded those in power that leadership is a service. And I must emphasise that the church has always urged us, Catholic laypeople and all people of goodwill living in the DRC, to exercise civic vigilance,” stresses Faustin Onombili, president of CALCC.

Opposition challenges the reform

Beyond the religious dimension, the reform project has stoked political tensions. Critics accuse President Félix Tshisekedi of seeking to reshape institutional rules for his own benefit.

The Article 64 Coalition, which has labelled the initiative a “constitutional coup,” had planned to file a complaint on Tuesday. That move was postponed as the group focused on organising a sit-in outside Parliament scheduled for Friday.

As the referendum draws nearer, the debate over constitutional reform appears more polarised than ever, pitting those who argue for updated institutions against defenders of the democratic framework established in 2006.