Dozens of people have been arrested in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) following protests against proposed constitutional changes that critics say could allow President Felix Tshisekedi to seek a third term.
The protests broke out on Tuesday in Kinshasa, the capital, and several other major cities across the country but were met with a police crackdown.
According to Reuters, police fired tear gas and warning shots in Kinshasa to disperse hundreds of protesters who took part in the demonstrations.
Videos shared on social media showed hundreds of protesters waving flags belonging to various political parties during demonstrations organised by the C64, or Coalition Article 64, a broad opposition alliance opposed to the proposed constitutional changes.
Tshisekedi, who has been in office since 2019, is due to complete his second five-year term in 2028, which would be his final term under the current constitution. The DRC constitution currently limits presidents to two five-year terms.
However, Tshisekedi said in May that he would be willing to serve a third term in the conflict-plagued country “if the people wish it”.
In June, Parliament adopted legislation allowing constitutional changes to be put to a referendum. Critics fear the proposed changes could eventually create a pathway for Tshisekedi to seek another term.
Police dispersed protesters after supporters and opponents of Tshisekedi clashed during demonstrations against the proposed constitutional changes.
Martin Fayulu, a former presidential candidate and one of the leaders of C64, said the opposition was considering filing an international complaint over the alleged violence against opposition activists.
