In a recent homily, Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu criticized the DRC government’s intentions to amend the constitution, questioning the prioritization of constitutional debates over urgent youth issues. He urged young people to take an active role in their country’s future while emphasizing the transience of political power compared to the eternal nature of divine authority. The proposed amendments, aimed at allowing President Tshisekedi a potential third term, have faced significant public opposition.
Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu, the Metropolitan Archbishop of Kinshasa, has expressed grave concerns regarding the upcoming constitutional amendments proposed by President Félix Tshisekedi. During a homily for the diocesan Youth Day on November 24, the Cardinal questioned the rationale behind allocating significant time, effort, and financial resources towards constitutional reform while neglecting the dire needs of Congolese youth. He pointedly asked, “How can we in a country spend so much energy and money on constitutional revision instead of taking care of our abandoned youth?”
Cardinal Ambongo emphasized the disparity between governmental actions and the pressing issues faced by the population, particularly the youth. He challenged the notion that amending the constitution would ensure a brighter future for graduates seeking employment, urging the youth to actively engage in fostering positive change in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
He reminded the young people that “Congo is your country. If you allow yourselves to become discouraged, no one else will take better care of it than you,” highlighting that earthly powers are transient while the Kingdom of God is eternal. Ambongo cautioned against falling prey to false promises and urged adherence to Christ, advocating for love, truth, justice, and peace as fundamental principles for societal transformation.
In response to public discontent over the proposed revisions, which aim to eliminate the two-term limit on the presidency—potentially allowing Tshisekedi to seek a third term—the Cardinal’s statements resonate deeply within an increasingly vocal opposition. His remarks reflect a broader sentiment among the populace regarding the dire need for prioritizing the future of youth over constitutional debates.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is witnessing a political climate marked by proposed constitutional amendments that have stirred public controversy. President Félix Tshisekedi’s intention to potentially extend his presidency by abolishing the two-term limit has sparked significant public opposition. The country grapples with the challenges of youth unemployment and a lack of essential services, raising questions about governmental priorities and the relevance of constitutional changes in addressing societal needs. Cardinal Ambongo’s remarks underscore the disconnect between political maneuvers and the realities confronted by the youth in DRC.
Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu’s denouncement of the DRC’s governmental focus on constitutional reform underscores a critical conversation about youth neglect and political responsibility. His call to action for young Congolese to engage in shaping their nation reflects a growing need for leadership that prioritizes the populace’s needs over political ambitions. The opposition to the proposed constitutional changes further highlights the urgency for a government that listens and responds to the aspirations of its citizens rather than pursuing personal political agendas.
Original Source: www.fides.org
