Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) President Felix Tshisekedi has sparked controversy by expressing openness to a third term if supported through a referendum. According to TimesLIVE, Tshisekedi stated at a press conference that while he hasn't sought an extension, he would accept it if the people desired one. This comes amid calls from allies to revise the constitution, which currently limits presidents to two terms.
Key Takeaways
DRC President Felix Tshisekedi has suggested he might seek a third term if the people support it through a referendum. He also hinted that elections scheduled for 2028 could be delayed due to ongoing conflict in the east of the country.
- Tshisekedi open to third term with constitutional changes
- Opposition accuses him of planning to extend his rule beyond two-term limit
- Conflict in eastern DRC raises possibility of election delay
- M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, control significant territory
The prospect of constitutional changes has angered opposition figures who accuse Tshisekedi of maneuvering to extend his rule beyond the legal limit. Former presidential candidate Delly Sesanga warned on social media that such moves could plunge the country into renewed political turmoil, as reported by both TimesLIVE and Reuters. Tshisekedi was re-elected in December 2023 for his second term.
The debate over constitutional revision is unfolding against a backdrop of insecurity in eastern DRC, where the M23 rebel group controls large swathes of territory. According to BBC, Tshisekedi suggested that ongoing conflict could make it impossible to hold the next presidential election on time in 2028. He emphasized that elections cannot be organized while parts of the country remain occupied, a sentiment echoed by all three publishers.
The M23 rebels are widely believed to be backed by neighboring Rwanda, although Rwanda denies these accusations. Despite mediation efforts by the United States and other international actors, fighting in the east continues unabated. Tshisekedi has blamed Rwanda for obstructing progress in peace negotiations, accusing them of profiting from DRC's rich mineral resources.
Calls for constitutional revision have intensified recently, with a technical commission set to examine proposals submitted by political parties and civil society groups after May 20. While supporters frame these efforts as strengthening democracy, critics view them as a potential attempt to circumvent term limits. The opposition has warned that any amendment to the constitution without broad consensus could amount to a 'constitutional coup.'
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