DR Congo Senate passes referendum bill, clearing path for president's potential third term

The Democratic Republic of Congo's Senate has advanced a bill concerning referendums, a legislative step that could pave the way for President Felix Tshisekedi to seek a third term in office. This development follows a tense period marked by clashes between demonstrators supporting and opposing the government's constitutional reform plans. The opposition views the proposed changes as a maneuver by Tshisekedi to extend his rule, despite the current constitution limiting presidents to two five-year terms.

President Tshisekedi, who has been in office since 2019, is nearing the end of his second term, which concludes in 2028. However, he recently indicated his openness to serving a third term, contingent on a public referendum to amend the constitution. The bill, which has already cleared the lower house, outlines the procedures for organizing referendums. While it is a technical text, its passage is seen as a crucial enabler for any presidential bid beyond the established two-term limit.

The bill now requires approval from the Constitutional Court before being sent to President Tshisekedi for his signature. The Democratic Republic of Congo, a vast and impoverished nation in central Africa, is grappling with multiple crises, including a severe Ebola outbreak and ongoing conflict in its eastern territories, exacerbated by the Rwanda-backed M23 armed group. Amidst these challenges, Tshisekedi has been consolidating his power, with his coalition commanding a significant majority in parliament.

Opposition parties have united in a coalition to challenge what they perceive as the president's ambition to remain in power indefinitely. Recent protests saw skirmishes between government supporters and opposition figures, resulting in injuries and, according to local rights groups, the recovery of two bodies. The government has not released an official casualty toll. Despite the internal political tensions and the country's ongoing struggles, the legislative process to potentially allow for a constitutional amendment and a third term for President Tshisekedi is moving forward.

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if the people wish it