DR Congo President Felix Tshisekedi pushes constitutional amendment for possible third term

President Félix Tshisekedi is preparing a law to amend the constitution that could open the way for a third presidential term after his current mandate ends in 2028. The Senate and National Assembly have both passed a bill organising a referendum on the reform, and the proposal now awaits the president’s signature.

Opposition leaders, including former presidential candidate Martin Fayulu, have denounced the move as a power grab, calling for street protests. Demonstrations in Kinshasa have turned violent, with several injured and at least one death reported. Analysts warn that changing the constitution without broad support could destabilise the country.

Within the ruling coalition, the Union Sacrée of the Nation faces internal disputes over the legitimacy of a convened meeting, highlighting tensions even among allies. Meanwhile, the Rassemblement pour la Souveraineté et la Démocratie (RSD) leader Dr. Ivan Ilunga Ngindu backs the revision, accusing opponents of contradictory positions. Local officials such as mayor Zedi Ntambwe Joseph Kisimba of Kalemie also publicly support the reform, urging citizen debate.

The ongoing conflict with M23 rebels in eastern DRC adds further uncertainty to the electoral calendar, with security concerns threatening the organisation of the 2028 elections.