Clashes erupt in DR Congo at rally against presidential term limit change
In the Democratic Republic of Congo, clashes broke out between opposition and pro-government supporters during a protest against a bill that could allow President Félix Tshisekedi to stay beyond two terms. Police used tear gas to disperse the crowd, and opposition leader Martin Fayulu was injured.
Rival political groups in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) clashed on Friday during a rally outside parliament in the capital Kinshasa, organized by the opposition coalition C64 to protest a proposed law that could allow President Félix Tshisekedi to remain in power beyond his two-term limit. Police fired tear gas to break up the demonstration after fighting involving pro-government activists.
Prominent opposition leader Martin Fayulu was among those injured; video footage showed him with blood around his eyes and shirt as supporters came to his aid. Another opposition figure, Prince Epenge, also sustained minor injuries, according to AFP.
The confrontation comes as the DRC faces multiple crises, including the latest Ebola outbreak and an escalation of the decades-long conflict with Rwanda-backed M23 rebels. An apparent bid by Tshisekedi to stay in office longer has generated further unrest. His second five-year term is due to end in 2028.
Tshisekedi recently declared he would agree to lead the country for a third term "if the people wish it" after a referendum on constitutional reform. While the DRC's constitution bars any revision of presidential term limits, a bill under consideration in the National Assembly would allow the president to amend those provisions in the event of a "major dysfunction" that paralyzes state institutions, potentially following a referendum.
The main opposition parties, which have been divided in recent years, joined forces in May under the C64 banner to oppose what they describe as an attempt by Tshisekedi to remain in power. The coalition has called the proposed changes a "serious threat" to the country's stability.
