DR Congo Senate passes referendum bill, potentially enabling President Tshisekedi's third term bid
via Punch Nigeria1 min read
The Democratic Republic of Congo's Senate has passed a bill concerning the holding of referendums, a move that could allow President Felix Tshisekedi to amend the constitution and seek a third term. This development follows clashes between anti- and pro-Tshisekedi demonstrators protesting against the government's constitutional change plans. President Tshisekedi, whose second and final term under the current constitution ends in 2028, stated last month he would accept a third term if the people desired it after a constitutional reform referendum. The bill, which previously passed the lower house, is a technical text on referendum organization but could facilitate the removal of the presidential two-term limit. It now requires approval from the Constitutional Court and the President's signature. The DRC is currently facing an Ebola outbreak and conflict with the M23 armed group in its eastern region. Tshisekedi's coalition holds a parliamentary majority, while main opposition parties have formed a coalition to oppose what they view as an attempt to retain power. Several opposition figures were injured during a recent protest that involved skirmishes with government supporters and police, with local rights groups reporting two bodies recovered.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
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