The Coalition Article 64 (C64), a group advocating for constitutional order in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, concluded a visit to Bujumbura on July 9, 2026, following talks with Évariste Ndayishimiye, the President of Burundi. The coalition, led by figures including Martin Fayulu, clarified that their engagement was not an initiative of their own but rather a response to an invitation extended by Ndayishimiye in his capacity as the current African Union chairperson.
During the discussions, C64 leaders emphasized that any meaningful political dialogue must be grounded in key non-negotiable principles. These include the permanent abandonment of constitutional amendments, the unconditional release of political prisoners, the cessation of politically motivated prosecutions, and the restoration of public freedoms. While expressing openness to dialogue, they stressed that these conditions are essential to address the root causes of the crisis in the DRC, which previous peace processes have failed to resolve due to their neglect of political dimensions.
Core demands to restore constitutional order
The coalition’s stance centers on upholding the Constitution, reinforcing the rule of law, and affirming the sovereignty of the Congolese people. They argue that the current constitutional reform project advanced by President Félix Tshisekedi—especially amid ongoing conflict and territorial occupation—represents a critical obstacle to stability. In response, C64 has vowed to oppose the revision vehemently while advocating for adherence to institutional norms.
These demands will take center stage on July 22, 2026, when the coalition plans a peaceful march to the Palais de la Nation. The demonstration aims to pressure President Tshisekedi to resign, citing what they describe as his violation of his constitutional oath.
