President Félix Tshisekedi said he is open to seeking a third presidential term in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
His remarks triggered sharp criticism from opposition figures, who accused him of seeking to bypass constitutional two-term limits and extend his rule.
The constitution of the Democratic Republic of Congo currently restricts presidents to serving a maximum of two elected terms in office.
Tshisekedi said any change would require a formal constitutional revision followed by approval through a national referendum process.
He added that he has not officially requested another term, but would accept it if the Congolese people demanded such a decision.
Opposition leaders warned the comments could push the country toward renewed political instability and deepen institutional tensions across fragile state structures.
Former presidential candidate Delly Sesanga urged democrats to resist what he described as a dangerous slide toward personalised and centralised political power.
Tshisekedi, re-elected in December 2023, is the son of veteran opposition leader Etienne Tshisekedi, a key figure in Congo’s political history.
Debate over constitutional revision has intensified after allies proposed updates to the current governing charter in recent political discussions.
A coalition official from the Sacred Union invited political actors, civil society groups, and legal experts to submit proposals for reform consideration.
Officials said a technical commission is expected after May 20 to review submissions and advise the presidency on possible constitutional changes.
Meanwhile, conflict in eastern Congo involving the AFC/M23 rebel coalition continues to undermine national stability and strain governance efforts nationwide.
Tshisekedi warned that ongoing war in the east could prevent the country from organising national elections on schedule in 2028.