The Coalition Article 64 for the defense of constitutional order (C64) has made a strategic decision to postpone the peaceful march originally scheduled for Wednesday, July 22 in front of the Palais de la Nation in Kinshasa. This announcement was made public today, Monday, July 20, through a communiqué signed by the five leaders of the coalition: Martin Fayulu (ECiDé), Jean-Marc Kabund (A.Ch), Moïse Katumbi (Ensemble), Augustin Matata (LGD), and Delly Sesanga (Envol).
Why the postponement?
The coalition cited a call issued on July 18 by the National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO) and the Evangelical Church of Congo (ECC), represented by Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo and Reverend President André Bokundoa, urging C64 to give genuine dialogue a chance. The coalition also acknowledged the announcement from the Presidency, following an audience with religious leaders, that President Félix Tshisekedi intends to organize an “inclusive, peaceful, and republican dialogue within the framework of the Constitution and institutions.”
A gesture of responsibility
C64 emphasized that this postponement, decided during meetings held on Saturday, July 18 and Monday, July 20, reflects a “gesture of responsibility” rather than a retreat from defending constitutional order. The coalition made it clear that its commitment to the articles 70 and 220 of the Constitution—limiting presidential mandates to two—remains unwavering. The postponement does not signal any weakening of their determination to uphold these constitutional principles.
Clear conditions set
The coalition has laid out specific conditions for the resumption of dialogue. C64 insists that a national inclusive dialogue must be officially convened “as soon as possible” to address the root causes of the crisis, including:
- External aggression and insecurity in the eastern regions of the country;
- The governance crisis and economic and social challenges;
- Necessary reforms to reunify the territory and consolidate peace.
The coalition also demands “confidence-building measures and de-escalation steps” to reassure all stakeholders. It warns that the responsibility for the next steps lies squarely with President Félix Tshisekedi and his administration. Any provocative actions, particularly the pursuit of constitutional changes, such as the potential enactment of a referendum law, will be met with a firm response.
August 15 ultimatum
C64 has set an August 15, 2026 deadline for the official convening of the national inclusive dialogue. If the dialogue is not called by this date or if the announced commitments remain unfulfilled, the coalition reserves the right to “draw all political consequences” and call on the Congolese people to resume peaceful civic actions. Until then, all structures of the coalition, both within the country and abroad, will remain in a state of “maximum mobilization and alert.”
Uncompromising stance
C64’s communiqué concludes with a reaffirmation of its unyielding stance: “We will not compromise on the defense of constitutional order. The Constitution is not a subject of negotiation.”
