Tshisekedi to Launch National Dialogue Amid Third-Term Debate

President Félix Tshisekedi has announced a national dialogue aimed at reducing political tensions over a bill that critics say could clear the way for him to seek a third term.

The process will begin with consultations in all 26 provinces before concluding with national talks in the capital, Kinshasa. Tshisekedi made the announcement in a speech broadcast on national television on Thursday night.

Armed groups and people working on behalf of foreign countries will not be allowed to participate, the president said. The decision would exclude the AFC/M23 rebels backed by Rwanda, who control large areas of eastern Congo. Political parties, civil society groups, religious and traditional leaders, business representatives, academics, youth and women’s organizations, and members of the Congolese diaspora are expected to take part.

Tshisekedi said the dates and rules for the process would be announced later. He expects the talks to last no more than three months.

Political tensions have grown since a bill passed in June allowed constitutional changes to be submitted to voters in a referendum. Tshisekedi’s supporters have called for constitutional revisions that would let him run again. Earlier this year, he said he would accept another candidacy if the Congolese people wanted it.

The constitution limits presidents to two five-year terms. Tshisekedi won his first election in 2018 and was re-elected in 2023, with his current term due to end in 2028. The proposed changes have drawn criticism from the influential Catholic Church and opposition groups. Opposition protests in June were forcibly dispersed, while those groups have demanded inclusive talks that also include rebel factions and supporters of former president Joseph Kabila.

The dialogue is being planned as security in eastern Congo remains fragile and a rapidly spreading Ebola outbreak adds to the country’s challenges.