DR Congo President Moves to Secure Long-Term Hold on Power
KINSHASA — President Felix Tshisekedi is preparing to pass a law that could open the door to a third term by amending the constitution, a move that has drawn sharp opposition and fears of unrest in the vast central African nation.
Tshisekedi, 63, reaches the end of his second — and currently final — five‑year mandate in December 2028. For months, he and his supporters have been preparing public opinion for the idea of him staying on, using a strategy common among African leaders: reforming a constitution they describe as outdated.
“I didn’t seek a third term, but I am telling you this: if the people want me to have a third term, I will accept,” Tshisekedi said recently. A bill outlining a referendum on constitutional reform has passed both houses of parliament, which are dominated by his ruling bloc, and now sits on his desk awaiting his decision.
Opposition figures have condemned the move. Martin Fayulu, who finished second in the 2018 election and third in 2023, said Tshisekedi “has betrayed the oath he took to respect and defend the constitution.” An opposition rally earlier this month was suppressed, with several opposition figures wounded in clashes with police and pro‑government activists. Local human rights groups reported at least two deaths; the government said 25 people were hurt.
The authorities have argued that as long as conflict continues in eastern DRC, where the Rwanda‑backed M23 armed group has seized key cities, conditions are not right for elections. Analysts warn this could be a deliberate strategy. Postponing an election to cling to power — a tactic known as “drift” — often replaces a failed constitutional change attempt.
Former president Joseph Kabila tried to remain in power beyond two terms by changing electoral law in 2015. Demonstrations and international pressure forced him to abandon the plan. Tshisekedi, then in opposition, had spoken out in the name of democracy against Kabila’s bid. The opposition has called a new march for July 8 to demand his resignation.
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