The Congolese opposition coalition C64 has delayed its planned nationwide protests from Wednesday to 22 July following intervention by the African Union. The group, formed in May and named after Article 64 of the DRC constitution, accuses President Felix Tshisekedi of pursuing a constitutional referendum to enable a third term in office. C64 demands Tshisekedi's resignation, calling the proposed reforms a "constitutional coup." The coalition had called for mass demonstrations, but agreed to postpone them after AU-led talks aimed at reducing tensions.
Human Rights Watch reported that security forces used excessive force against protesters on 12 June, firing tear gas and live ammunition to disperse crowds. That crackdown resulted in violent confrontations between demonstrators and police and army units, raising concerns about potential violence during future rallies. The unrest reflects growing public distrust toward Tshisekedi's leadership, with political tensions increasingly manifesting in street protests.
C64 draws its name from Article 64, which guarantees citizens the right to resist any unconstitutional seizure of power. The coalition hopes the rescheduled protests will amplify pressure on the government to address its demands. The African Union's mediation has temporarily eased immediate tensions, but no resolution has been reached on the constitutional dispute. Authorities have not commented on the AU's specific role or the content of discussions.
The next major flashpoint is set for 22 July, when C64 plans to hold the postponed demonstrations unless political concessions are made.
C64's decision to delay protests after AU involvement shows the coalition relies more on diplomatic pressure than mass mobilization to challenge Tshisekedi. The group's identity is built on Article 64's right to resist unconstitutional rule, yet it has accepted a postponement without extracting any public concessions from the government. If the AU fails to mediate a tangible outcome by 22 July, the credibility of both the opposition and the Union's peacemaking role could weaken amid rising public frustration.
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