DR Congo Senate Approves Referendum Bill Amid Third-Term Debate

The Democratic Republic of Congo's Senate has approved a referendum bill that could pave the way for constitutional changes, potentially allowing President Felix Tshisekedi to seek a third term. The move has sparked controversy, with opposition groups accusing the government of attempting to extend the president's stay in power, while supporters argue that any reforms should be decided by voters through a referendum.

The Senate of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has approved a bill establishing the legal framework for holding referendums in the country, a development that could open the door to constitutional changes and potentially allow President Felix Tshisekedi to seek a third term in office.

The legislation was passed by the Senate on Monday after already receiving approval from the National Assembly, the lower chamber of parliament, earlier this month. While the bill is officially described as a technical measure aimed at regulating the organisation and conduct of referendums, its passage has sparked intense political debate because of its possible implications for the country's constitutional order.

The vote comes at a time of heightened political tension in the Central African nation. Just days before the Senate approved the bill, supporters and opponents of President Tshisekedi clashed during demonstrations over plans to amend the constitution. The protests highlighted deep divisions within the country regarding the future of its democratic institutions and the limits placed on presidential power.

Opposition parties have strongly condemned any attempt to revise the constitution, arguing that such efforts are designed to enable Tshisekedi to remain in office beyond the two terms currently permitted under the law. Critics accuse the government of seeking to weaken constitutional safeguards that were put in place to prevent the concentration of power and ensure regular democratic transitions.

President Tshisekedi, who first assumed office in January 2019, is currently serving his second five-year term after securing re-election. Under the existing constitution, presidents are restricted to two terms, meaning his current mandate is expected to end in 2028.

However, the 63-year-old leader has indicated that he would not rule out remaining in office if constitutional reforms were approved by voters. Speaking last month, Tshisekedi said he would be willing to lead the country for a third term if that was the wish of the Congolese people expressed through a referendum. His remarks immediately fuelled speculation about the government's intentions and intensified concerns among opposition groups and civil society organisations.

Supporters of constitutional reform argue that the current constitution may require changes to address governance challenges facing the country. They insist that any amendments should be decided democratically through a referendum, allowing citizens to determine the future direction of the nation. Government allies have also maintained that discussing constitutional reforms should not automatically be interpreted as an attempt to extend presidential rule.

The Democratic Republic of Congo continues to face numerous challenges, including insecurity in its eastern regions, where armed groups remain active, as well as economic and humanitarian difficulties affecting millions of people. The debate over constitutional reform is unfolding against this backdrop of ongoing instability and concerns about the country's long-term political future.

Although the referendum bill itself focuses on the procedures for organising and conducting referendums, many observers see it as an important step that could facilitate broader constitutional changes in the years ahead. The legislation now positions the government to potentially seek public approval for reforms that could reshape the country's political system.

As discussions continue, opposition parties have vowed to resist any effort they believe is aimed at removing presidential term limits, while supporters of reform argue that the final decision should rest with the electorate. The issue is expected to remain at the centre of political debate in the Democratic Republic of Congo as the country moves closer to the end of Tshisekedi's second term in office.