Me Jean-Claude Katende Urges Congolese Citizens to Engage in Constitutional Revision Debate
Renowned Congolese civil society figure, Me Jean-Claude Katende, has issued a call to action for the people of Congo to actively participate in the ongoing debate surrounding the revision or amendment of the Constitution. This crucial issue, according to Katende, holds the key to the nation’s future and requires the input of all citizens.
Critical Importance of Citizen Involvement
In a recent opinion piece, Me Katende criticized the notion that discussions on constitutional matters should be left solely to legal experts. He emphasized the societal significance of this debate and highlighted Article 218 of the Constitution, which grants the people the ultimate responsibility to approve any constitutional revisions either through a referendum or indirectly through Congress.
“If the people have the final say in the fate of the proposed constitutional revision, on what grounds do some constitutional experts deny them the right to participate in the preliminary discussions?” questioned Katende.
Denouncement of Inconsistent Constitutionalist Stances
Me Katende also expressed his dismay at the inconsistent positions taken by some Congolese constitutional experts, whom he accused of lacking coherence, integrity, and independence. He pointed out what he perceived as shifting stances driven by political, tribal, or financial interests.
“Those who opposed constitutional revisions under President Kabila are now in favor of them under President Tshisekedi, and vice versa. They are true chameleons that no serious person can follow or trust,” he wrote.
Empowering Citizens to Speak Up
Encouraging citizens, especially the youth, to actively engage in the debate, Me Katende urged them to educate themselves and take informed positions. He also called on them to shed any inhibitions when faced with “scientists whose conscience has been destroyed by tribalism, corruption, and clientelism.”
“Science without integrity is immorality at all levels,” he asserted, urging the Congolese people to participate in the debate without fear or intimidation.
In his closing remarks, Me Katende expressed his willingness to engage in discussions with any constitutional expert willing to exchange views on this critical issue.