DRC opposition plans sit‑in over constitutional amendment and alleged third term

Opposition leaders in the Democratic Republic of Congo have announced a sit‑in protest in front of the Palace of the Nation to block a proposed constitutional change that could allow President Félix Tshisekedi to seek a third term. The movement, organized by the C64 coalition of figures such as Moïse Katumbi, Delly Sesanga and Martin Fayulu, follows a parliamentary law passed in June that would enable a referendum on amending the constitution. Tshisekedi has said the law will be referred to the Constitutional Court for review.

The Congolese armed forces (FARDC) issued a statement denying the authenticity of a viral communiqué purportedly from their spokesperson, General‑major Mak Hazukay Mongba, warning the public to rely only on official communications. The army cautioned that the fake document was an attempt at misinformation and that its authors could face prosecution. Earlier clashes in Kinshasa left at least one protester dead, prompting condemnation from the United Nations.

The opposition accuses the president of manipulating the constitution to extend his rule beyond the two‑term limit, while the government maintains the process is legally compliant. The upcoming protest marks a heightened phase of political tension ahead of the 2028 presidential election.