Third Term Debate in DRC and Mauritania: Will Tshisekedi and Ghazouani Cross the Line?

The political landscapes of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Mauritania, though geographically distant, are converging around a contentious issue: the possibility of a third presidential term. In both nations, which have experienced political alternation in the past decade, the question of extending presidential mandates is increasingly dividing the public and fueling tensions.

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the presidents Félix Tshisekedi and Mohamed Ould Ghazouani will take the step?

The central question facing observers is whether Presidents Félix Tshisekedi of the DRC and Mohamed Ould Ghazouani of Mauritania will indeed seek to extend their time in office. While definitive answers remain elusive, both leaders seem to be employing a strategy of gauging public opinion through statements made by loyal allies, suggesting a cautious approach to a potentially unpopular move.

In the DRC, the debate over a potential third term for President Tshisekedi has intensified over the past two years. The situation escalated when the National Assembly adopted a draft law that would empower the head of state to organize a referendum on a third mandate. This move has significantly heightened political and social tensions, with the opposition and civil society vehemently opposing any such attempt. Protests, including a reportedly successful "ville morte" (dead city) day, have been organized, and opposition platforms like the C64 have called for demonstrations, leading to clashes with security forces and arrests.

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the two personalities give the impression of advancing masked, using, as is known, the well-known recipe of sounding out public opinion through the statements of loyal lieutenants.

Despite the significant opposition and unrest, President Tshisekedi appears resolute, seemingly prepared to push forward to secure an extended term. This stance draws a parallel to his own past opposition to his predecessor, Joseph Kabila, who sought to extend his mandate. The article notes the irony of Tshisekedi potentially repeating the same actions he once fought against, while expecting different outcomes.

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President Félix Tshisékedi remains firm in his stance.

The situation in Mauritania, while less detailed in this specific text, is presented as parallel to the DRC's. The article implies that similar discussions and political maneuvering regarding a third term are likely occurring or being contemplated by President Ghazouani, making the comparison between the two leaders and their countries' political trajectories a key focus.

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the struggle had paid off since, cornered from all sides, Kabila had no choice but to bow his head by choosing a successor who, in the end, was soundly beaten because he was no match.