DR Congo Parliament Passes Law Regulating Referendum Process

On 9 June 2026 the lower house of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s parliament voted overwhelmingly – 348 of 351 deputies – to adopt a bill setting out the legal framework for organising a national referendum. The legislation details the president’s role in convening the vote, the procedures of the independent electoral commission, campaign rules, vote counting and dispute resolution. It also provides for the possible creation of an enlarged constituent assembly that could include provincial deputies, governors and municipal councillors.

An amendment championed by deputy Patrick Matata Makalamba was approved, extending participation in the referendum process to provincial and communal representatives, signalling an effort to broaden regional input. The opposition parties boycotted the vote, denouncing the measure as a “constitutional coup” and warning it could pave the way for a third presidential term for Félix Tshisekedi, whose current mandate expires in 2028.

The bill now moves to the Senate for a second reading before it can be signed into law by the president.