DR Congo’s leader opens way for third term under new constitution

In Kinshasa, DR Congo's President Felix Tshisekedi has passed a law that paves the way for a constitutional change, sparking condemnation from the opposition. This development occurs two years before the next scheduled elections, as the reformed M23 armed group, now led by Tshisekedi's predecessor Joseph Kabila, threatens to "put an end to tyranny" by force if necessary.

Tshisekedi, who has been in power since 2019, is currently barred from seeking a third term under the existing constitution. Opposition parties have united in recent months to oppose Tshisekedi's attempt to modify the constitution for a third term. Demonstrations against the constitutional change took place in June and September in Kinshasa and other cities, though the opposition has struggled to rally large crowds due to ongoing clashes with security forces.

The United Nations reported at least one fatality during the June protests, while the opposition claimed one of their supporters was killed in September. Tshisekedi's offer for a national dialogue has been rejected by the main opposition parties. Meanwhile, the eastern part of the vast central African nation remains plagued by conflict, with the Rwanda-backed M23 group seizing territory in recent years.

Ex-president Kabila recently took over the now-renamed Front for the Refoundation of the Nation (FRN), which succeeded the M23 movement. Kabila has vehemently criticized the government's insistence on changing the constitution, threatening to "put an end to tyranny by all means, including force." The eastern DRC, rich in valuable minerals sought by global powers, has been embroiled in conflict for over 30 years, primarily due to the resurgence of the anti-government M23, backed by Kigali and its army since late 2021.

The front line has remained relatively stable since then, with various peace mediation attempts underway, but none have yet halted the fighting. Kabila, who ruled from 2001 to 2019, was sentenced to death in absentia in 2022 for treason, accused of colluding with the M23. He is also under US sanctions due to his financial and political support for the M23.

Diplomatic sources and observers express concerns that opposition to Tshisekedi could be misconstrued as support for the ex-president's rebellion. The C64 platform, formed by opposition parties, condemned any seizure of power by force, as well as any constitutional changes, a third term, or postponement of the scheduled 2028 elections.