The Senate of the Democratic Republic of Congo has approved a constitutional reform bill that could allow President Félix Tshisekedi to seek another term in office, marking a significant development in the country’s political landscape ahead of the next presidential election.
According to Reuters, the bill paves the way for a national referendum on a proposed new constitution that would permit President Félix Tshisekedi to run for an additional term despite currently serving what is widely regarded as his second and final term under the existing constitution.
The legislation was adopted with overwhelming support in the Senate, where all 89 participating senators voted in favour of the measure. Twenty senators did not take part in the vote.
The decision comes amid heightened political tensions and growing debate over the future direction of governance in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Don’t Miss This:
DR Congo to Receive First US Third-Country Deportees This Week, Sources Say
Reuters reported that the proposed constitutional changes would effectively reset presidential term calculations, allowing President Félix Tshisekedi to seek another mandate if approved through a national referendum.
The Senate’s approval follows earlier passage of the bill by the National Assembly, meaning the legislation has now cleared both chambers of parliament.
The bill must still be signed into law by President Tshisekedi before the referendum process can proceed.
Supporters argue that constitutional reform could provide an opportunity to modernise governance structures and address political challenges facing the country.
However, the proposal has generated strong opposition from critics who view it as an attempt to extend presidential tenure beyond existing constitutional limits.
Reuters reported that opposition Senator Salomon Kalonda Della Idi warned that the proposed changes could have serious long-term implications for national unity and democratic governance.
Political tensions surrounding the legislation were highlighted last week when protests against the bill turned violent in Kinshasa.
According to Reuters, security forces used tear gas and live ammunition to disperse demonstrators, while opposition figures reported injuries among protest participants.
What This Means For Africa
The constitutional reform debate in the Democratic Republic of Congo reflects a broader conversation taking place across several African countries regarding presidential term limits, constitutional amendments, and democratic transitions.
Changes to constitutional provisions governing presidential tenure often generate significant political debate because they can shape leadership succession, institutional stability, and public confidence in democratic processes.
For the Democratic Republic of Congo, one of Africa’s largest and most strategically important nations, the outcome of the proposed referendum could have major implications for the country’s political future.
President Félix Tshisekedi remains one of the continent’s most influential political leaders, and any decision regarding future eligibility for office is likely to attract attention from regional governments, investors, development partners, and international observers.
The developments also come at a time when Congo is dealing with multiple national challenges, including security concerns in eastern provinces, public health emergencies, economic development priorities, and ongoing governance reforms.
As the country moves closer to its scheduled 2028 presidential election, the constitutional debate is expected to remain a central issue within national politics.
The eventual referendum, if held, could become one of the most consequential political events in the Democratic Republic of Congo in recent years, helping determine not only the future of President Félix Tshisekedi’s political career but also the direction of the country’s democratic institutions.
Don’t Miss This:
Democratic Republic of Congo and U.S. Agree $1.2 Billion Health Partnership
Image Credit: Polity
