DRC President Tshisekedi signals possible constitutional change amid M23 rebel pullback

President Félix Tshisekedi told reporters in Kinshasa that he will heed the will of the people regarding his political future after 2028, saying, "If the people want it, I will accept." He raised the prospect of amending the 2006 constitution to lift the two‑term limit and pledged to submit any new charter to a popular vote. Tshisekedi added that the 2028 presidential election could not be held until security in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo is restored, warning that territorial integrity threatened by M23/AFC rebels would block the poll.

In related developments, the M23 rebel group, long backed by neighboring Rwanda, announced a retreat from several towns in South Kivu province, including the district capital Sange, after recent U.S. pressure and sanctions targeting former President Joseph Kabila. While the rebels have withdrawn from these locations, they remain entrenched in other eastern areas, keeping the peace process fragile. The United States, which mediated a 2025 peace accord between Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame, continues to urge de‑escalation, emphasizing that a comprehensive settlement is still required for lasting stability in the region.