The Ministry of Higher Education, University, Scientific Research, and Innovations (ESURSI) is currently hosting a series of “scientific” colloquiums from Wednesday, June 10, to Friday, June 12. These important discussions are taking place simultaneously in Kinshasa, Kisangani (Tshopo province), and Lubumbashi (Haut-Katanga province). The initiative, as outlined by Minister Sombo Ayanne Safi Mukuna Marie-Thérèse, aims to invigorate scientific research and bolster the Congolese university’s engagement in national public discourse, particularly as a referendum bill was recently passed in parliament.

“Nearly two decades after the Constitution of February 18, 2006, came into effect, this colloquium seeks to conduct a thorough scientific analysis of its achievements, limitations, and potential evolutions to align with the current realities of the Democratic Republic of Congo. The proceedings are expected to culminate in recommendations designed to strengthen the rule of law, enhance democratic governance, and foster sustainable development across the nation,” stated Minister Mukuna Marie-Thérèse.

These crucial gatherings are structured around three distinct thematic poles: Kinshasa focuses on geostrategic issues; Kisangani delves into sociological and environmental aspects; and Lubumbashi explores industrial and energy transition challenges.

The ministry has extended invitations to a diverse group of participants, including academic researchers, constitutional law experts, social science specialists, representatives from various academic institutions and research centers, and advanced-level students. Furthermore, the ministry urges leaders of higher education institutions to widely disseminate this information and encourage their researchers and experts to actively contribute to the success of this significant national event.

“Through this endeavor, ESURSI reaffirms the pivotal role of universities and research centers as incubators of ideas and proposers of solutions for the benefit of the Nation. The active participation of the academic community is anticipated to ensure the scientific rigor of the deliberations and the relevance of the recommendations that will emerge from the colloquium,” the Minister further emphasized.

The highly contentious issue of constitutional reform, encompassing both revision and fundamental change, has recently resurfaced, now dominating the political landscape of the Democratic Republic of Congo. This debate had previously been sidelined due to the offensive by the AFC/M23 rebellion, allegedly supported by Rwanda, which resulted in significant territorial losses and ongoing diplomatic efforts to resolve the security crisis. Championed notably by the UDPS, the presidential party and a key member of the ruling Union Sacrée coalition, this discussion continues to generate intense political friction.

Both the UDPS and the Union Sacrée de la Nation are officially advocating for constitutional reform. However, this proposal lacks universal consensus. Supporters of revision or change, including several prominent figures within the Union Sacrée, criticize the existing 2006 Constitution, labeling it a “trapped Constitution” and asserting its inadequacy for the nation’s current context. They highlight concerns related to state administration, the definition of nationality, and the urgent need to adapt the legal framework to Congolese realities. Some also invoke the pursuit of peace or question the feasibility of the elections scheduled for 2028.

Conversely, the opposition and other Congolese socio-political forces vehemently reject this approach. They deem it self-destructive amidst what they describe as a war of aggression waged by Rwanda through the AFC/M23 rebellion. They also contend that the Tshisekedi administration, given its perceived negative track record since assuming power, no longer merits leading the country. For these opponents, the government’s push for constitutional revision or change is, in fact, a covert attempt to consolidate power and pave the way for a third term for President Félix Tshisekedi, who is currently serving his second and final mandate, set to conclude in January 2029, when he is constitutionally obliged to transfer power to his successor.

In the Democratic Republic of Congo, the constitutional reform debate has catalyzed the emergence of two distinct socio-political movements: the Coalition Article 64 for the Defense of the Constitutional Order (C64) and the Coalition of Congolese for Constitutional Change (C4). Each faction asserts widespread popular backing in its endeavor to realize its stated objectives.