Political leaders in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Nicaragua are pushing for constitutional changes. In both countries, critics say changes that would expand presidents’ powers could erode democracy and destabilize already fragile nations.

The two similar events, taking place in the Global South, raise questions about the health of democracy in these regions.

In Congo, a constitution under siege

In Kinshasa, President Félix Tshisekedi recently announced the formation of a national commission responsible for drafting a new constitution.

Tshisekedi criticized the current 2006 constitution as “outdated”, pointing to problems such as slow post-election transitions and tensions between governors and provincial assemblies.

Opposition figures, however, are alarmed.

They fear the changes could pave the way for removing the two-term presidential limit, allowing Tshisekedi, who was re-elected last December under controversial circumstances, to remain in office beyond his current term.

“This constitution was intended to avoid authoritarian excesses,” declared Shadary Ramazani, spokesperson for the party of former President Joseph Kabila. The opposition, including Kabila, has called for nationwide protests to resist Tshisekedi’s plans.

Experts note that even if Tshisekedi has the power to initiate constitutional changes, these would require approval from 60 percent of Parliament or a national referendum.

In Nicaragua, presidential power takes center stage

In Managua, President Daniel Ortega proposed sweeping constitutional reforms to expand presidential powers and consolidate his family’s influence.

Among the proposed changes are increasing the presidential term from five to six years and formally recasting the vice presidency — currently held by Ortega’s wife, Rosario Murillo — into a “co-presidency.”

The reforms also propose greater state control over the media, which Ortega’s government sees as necessary to curb foreign interference.

The proposals were sent to the National Assembly on Tuesday, November 19, where Ortega’s party holds the majority, ensuring their likely rapid approval.

Critics say the changes will deepen Nicaragua’s authoritarian shift, a trajectory that began with Ortega’s suppression of dissent and jailing of opposition leaders following 2018 protests.

Different countries, same concern

Despite their geographic and cultural differences, the movements in Congo and Nicaragua have major similarities.

In both cases, leaders present their proposals as necessary to modernize governance or stabilize their nations. Opponents see it as an attempt to dismantle democratic guarantees and prolong their power.

Both countries are approaching critical junctures. In Congo, protests against Tshisekedi’s plans could become a flashpoint in a country already grappling with conflict and political uncertainty. In Nicaragua, Ortega’s proposed reforms could push the country further toward authoritarianism, leaving little room for opposition or dissent.

The international response has so far been muted. While Nicaragua faces long-standing sanctions from the United States and Europe, the constitutional debate in Congo is only just beginning.

With the contribution of agencies