DRC’s C64 Platform Postpones Protest Amidst President’s National Dialogue Announcement Nairobi, Kenya – In the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the opposition coalition C64 has suspended its planned protest, following President Felix Tshisekedi’s declaration of a national dialogue.
The C64 platform, which draws its name from Article 64 of the DRC constitution that protects citizens’right to resist unconstitutional power seizures, had previously accused Tshisekedi of orchestrating a referendum on a new constitution to facilitate his third term.
The decision to delay the protest, initially set for July 22, comes after the African Union (AU) brokered a deal with the opposition.
The AU’s mediation led to the agreement that the dialogue, to be spearheaded by religious groups, should be convened before August 15th.
The C64 coalition, which includes key opposition figures like Martin Fayulu, Moise Katumbi, Jean-Marc Kabund, and Delly Sesanga, had called for the mobilization to demand Tshisekedi’s resignation and uphold the constitution. Officials commented on the matter.
The postponement follows a demonstration on June 12 that turned violent, leading to clashes with security forces and raising concerns over further unrest. Despite the postponement, the opposition’s stance on the dialogue is skeptical, with the group seeing it as a means to sidestep their core concerns, including the potential extension of the presidency.
The upcoming national dialogue is thus seen by some as a potential step towards reconciliation, while others view it with caution.
The DRC, a nation with a history marked by political instability and conflict, currently faces tensions over potential constitutional amendments that could open the door to a third presidential term.
The postponement of the protest is a temporary reprieve, but the next few months are expected to be pivotal in shaping the country’s political trajectory.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Africanews
Source: Rédaction Africanews
