Democratic Republic of Congo’s constitutional court approved a proposal allowing a referendum to alter presidential term limits.
This controversial decision paves the way for President Felix Tshisekedi to potentially seek a third term in office.
The 63-year-old leader, in power since 2019, faces a constitutional barrier that mandates stepping down by late 2028.
Supporters argue the current foundation lacks alignment with public will, framing the rewrite as a necessity for national progress.
The court’s ruling allows a presidential panel to bypass locked constitutional clauses during periods of major institutional dysfunction.
A final public vote would seal the amendments, potentially resetting the presidential term count entirely for the incumbent.
Critics argue the judiciary lacks independence, casting dark shadows over the democratic legitimacy of this shifting political landscape.
Meanwhile, a wave of nationalism sweeps the country as conflict rages against Rwanda-backed M23 rebels in the east.
This security crisis bolsters Tshisekedi’s political standing, even as major eastern provinces face potential exclusion from voting.
Fragmented opposition forces recently united under the “C64” banner, attempting to ignite resistance against these sweeping changes.
Street protests in Kinshasa turned violent last month, leaving one demonstrator dead and several opposition leaders injured.
Activists now demand a national dialogue by mid-August, threatening widespread civil unrest if their voices remain ignored.