Opposition parties in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), have rejected President Félix Tshisekedi’s invitation for a national dialogue.

Tshisekedi framed the three-month consultation process across the country’s 26 provinces as an effort to ease political tensions.

The opposition view the initiative as a political maneuverer to alter the constitution-which currently dictates a strict two-term limit-and secure a third term in office.

Tensions are further exacerbated by the exclusive nature of the proposed talks.

Tshisekedi has firmly ruled out the participation of the M23 rebel group, stating that a peace accord signed in Washington in December, is the correct framework for handling them.

In contrast, some opposition factions have demanded that the dialogue include both M23 representatives and members allied with former President Joseph Kabila.

The opposition has also mobilised a nationwide day of demonstrations scheduled for September 15.

–ChannelAfrica–