The National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO) has issued a stern warning against any attempts to alter the country’s constitutional framework, particularly provisions that limit presidential terms. In a statement delivered by Secretary General Donatien Nshole, the Church emphasized that tampering with locked constitutional articles could lead to severe consequences, including the fragmentation of the nation.

Nshole condemned moves to push through a referendum law that would bypass constitutional safeguards, describing it as an effort to extend the current administration’s tenure. He stressed that such actions threaten the hard-won political consensus achieved after decades of turmoil since independence.

The Church highlighted the dangers of destabilization, warning that political rivalries—already fraught with ethnic and tribal undertones—could escalate into violent conflict if constitutional protections are weakened. According to Nshole, the locked provisions in the constitution, including term limits, serve as a critical safeguard against dictatorship and state capture.

In a rare display of unanimity, CENCO asserted that there is neither necessity nor urgency for constitutional changes. The Church urged national priorities to focus instead on peacebuilding, social welfare, and national cohesion.

This intervention by Congo’s Catholic leadership adds to growing public skepticism about governance reforms, as opposition groups and civil society intensify scrutiny over proposals they view as undemocratic power grabs.