DRC Senate backs referendum law amid fears Tshisekedi wants third term
All 78 senators present vote in favour of legislation that could reopen the constitutional debate over presidential term limits, sparking opposition fears of a bid to extend his rule beyond 2028
The Democratic Republic of Congo is facing mounting political tensions after the Senate approved controversial legislation paving the way for a constitutional referendum, raising fears that President Félix Tshisekedi could seek to extend his rule beyond 2028.
The legislation was approved unanimously on Saturday, with all 78 senators present voting in favour, advancing a process that has drawn fierce opposition from critics who accuse the ruling establishment of laying the groundwork for a third presidential term
The proposed referendum framework does not automatically grant Tshisekedi another term. However, opponents fear it could provide a route to constitutional changes that would undermine existing presidential term limits.
Tshisekedi, who came to power in 2019, is serving his second five-year term, which is his last under the current Constitution. Article 70 limits the president to two terms, while Article 220 protects the two-term restriction from constitutional revision.
The president’s mandate is due to end in 2028.
In May 2026, Tshisekedi said he was not actively campaigning for a third term but would accept another mandate if the Congolese people demanded it through a referendum.
He has also raised the possibility of difficulties holding the 2028 elections if the security situation in eastern DRC remains unstable.
The proposed constitutional changes have provoked strong resistance from opposition groups, including the Coalition Article 64, which has condemned the initiative as an attempted constitutional coup.
Critics argue that the process risks dismantling constitutional safeguards and reviving the political tensions witnessed under former president Joseph Kabila, whose delayed departure after two terms triggered widespread protests and international pressure.
Demonstrations against the proposed changes have been reported in Kinshasa, Bukavu and other parts of the country, with opposition activists warning against any attempt to extend presidential tenure.
Tshisekedi has called for national dialogue to address the political divisions and security crisis, but disagreements over participation and the exclusion of M23 rebels have complicated reconciliation efforts.
The referendum legislation has therefore become a major flashpoint in the country’s politics, with the 2028 succession battle threatening to intensify as the government advances its constitutional reform agenda.