Political leaders in Nicaragua and the Democratic Republic of Congo are seeking constitutional changes perceived as threats to democracy. In Congo, President Tshisekedi’s initiative could allow him to extend his presidency, while in Nicaragua, President Ortega’s proposals aim to increase his power and suppress dissent. Both developments reflect a worrying trend in consolidating power in the global South, with implications for stability and governance.
Political developments in Nicaragua and the Democratic Republic of Congo are alarming observers who fear for the future of democracy in these nations. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, President Félix Tshisekedi has initiated a national commission to revise the constitution, which many criticize as a facade to prolong his presidency beyond the current two-term limit. Meanwhile, in Nicaragua, President Daniel Ortega is advocating for constitutional reforms that would extend presidential terms and increase state control over the media, further entrenching his regime.
Despite differing contexts, the actions in both countries reflect a troubling trend of leaders seeking to consolidate power under the guise of modernization or stability. In Congo, opposition figures are advocating for nationwide protests against President Tshisekedi’s proposals, while in Nicaragua, Ortega’s moves are viewed as a continued descent into authoritarianism following a violent crackdown on dissent that began in 2018.
The political landscape in the global South is increasingly marked by attempts to undermine democratic structures. In both the Democratic Republic of Congo and Nicaragua, the leadership is pursuing constitutional amendments that critics argue will reinforce authoritarian governance. In Congo, Tshisekedi’s call for constitutional changes is seen as a potential threat to parliamentary democracy, while Ortega’s reforms in Nicaragua appear to entrench both his power and the influence of his family in the political sphere.
The parallel constitutional initiatives in Nicaragua and the Democratic Republic of Congo raise significant concerns regarding democratic integrity in these countries. The potential erosion of democratic safeguards poses risks to political stability and civil liberties. As both leaders pursue reforms that critics view as self-serving, the international community must remain vigilant and responsive to these developments, promoting accountability and democratic principles.
Original Source: www.firstpost.com
