THIRD TERM TENSIONS: Tshisekedi Open to Constitutional Revision Amid DRC Conflict

KINSHASA – Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) President Felix Tshisekedi has signaled his openness to seeking a third term, a move that has sparked immediate backlash from opposition leaders who fear a return to the "personalized power" dynamics of the past. Speaking at a late-Wednesday press conference, Tshisekedi addressed growing calls from his political allies to overhaul the country’s 2006 charter.

Under the current DRC constitution, presidents are strictly limited to two terms. Tshisekedi, who was re-elected for his second term in December 2023, maintained that while he has not explicitly requested an extension, he remains receptive to the public's will.

“I have not asked for a third term, but if the people want a third term, I will accept,” Tshisekedi stated, adding that any such change would necessitate a constitutional revision approved via a national referendum.

The President first introduced the idea of constitutional reform in late 2024, arguing the existing document was heavily influenced by foreign legal experts and no longer suited the nation's needs.

Opposition figures were quick to condemn the remarks, drawing parallels to the political crisis under former President Joseph Kabila, who triggered deadly protests by delaying elections in 2016.

• Delly Sesanga, a former presidential candidate, warned on X (formerly Twitter) that the country cannot afford a "new cycle of institutional tensions".

• Critics argue that revising mandate limits represents a "slide" away from democratic principles.

• The Sacred Union coalition, led by permanent secretary Andre Mbata, has already invited various sectors—including civil society, religious groups, and labor unions—to submit proposals for constitutional changes.

• A technical commission is scheduled to begin reviewing these submissions after May 20.

Adding to the political uncertainty, Tshisekedi warned that the ongoing conflict in the eastern DRC could potentially derail the next presidential vote scheduled for 2028. The AFC/M23 coalition, which Western governments and the UN allege is backed by Rwanda, continues to occupy significant territory.

“If this war cannot be ended, unfortunately, we will not be able to organise elections in 2028,” Tshisekedi warned, emphasizing that the state cannot hold a valid vote while parts of its territory remain under rebel occupation.

Felix Tshisekedi third term DRC