Police disperse protests over Congo constitutional amendment

Demonstrations erupted in multiple cities nationwide on Saturday as citizens gathered to oppose the president’s proposal to amend the constitution and permit a third term in office. Organizers, representing a coalition of opposition parties and civil‑society groups, called the rallies a defense of democratic norms, while authorities warned that the amendment could concentrate power and undermine the country’s term‑limit provisions. Police deployed units to several major thoroughfares in the capital and regional hubs, citing concerns over public order; reports indicated a handful of arrests and the temporary suspension of traffic in protest zones. Government spokespeople reiterated that the constitutional revision is intended to ensure political stability and continuity, asserting that any changes would be subject to parliamentary debate and a national referendum.

The protests, which featured placards, chants, and speeches from opposition leaders, have heightened scrutiny of the president’s agenda both domestically and among international observers. While the administration maintains that the amendment process follows legal channels, the demonstrators’ turnout suggests widespread public resistance. Authorities have pledged to monitor the situation closely, and the parliament is expected to schedule a debate on the amendment in the coming weeks, leaving the outcome of the proposed third‑term provision uncertain.