The Congolese president hints at a third term and warns against postponing the 2028 elections.

Written by: Mohamed Ragab

The President of the Republic raised Congo Democracy leader Felix Tshisekedi sparked widespread political controversy after hinting at the possibility of running for a third presidential term, despite constitutional restrictions limiting the presidency to only two terms, at a time when the country is facing escalating security challenges in eastern Congo that could lead to the postponement of the elections scheduled for 2028.

During a press conference, he confirmed ChiskidiThe 62-year-old said he had not personally sought to extend his term, but indicated he was willing to accept a new term if that was the wish of the Congolese people.

The Congolese president said: “I did not seek a third term, but if the people want me to have a third term, I will accept,” adding that any possible constitutional amendment would only be done through a popular referendum that would give citizens the final say on the matter.

A public referendum is a prerequisite for any constitutional amendment.

Tshisekedi emphasized that any constitutional revision would not be imposed unilaterally, but would require the consent of the citizens through a democratic process. He added, "If any change or revision is to be made, it will not happen without consulting the Congolese people through a referendum.".

Current laws in the Democratic Republic of Congo limit presidential terms to two, which means that Tshisekedi’s current term, which ends in 2028, is supposed to be his last under the existing constitution.

The president's remarks come amid growing fears within political and opposition circles that he might seek to amend the constitution to allow him to remain in power for a longer period, similar to what has happened in several African countries in recent years.

The war in eastern Congo threatens elections

In a related context, Tshisekedi warned that the continuation of the war in the east of the country could hinder the organization of the upcoming presidential elections, indicating that the authorities may be forced to postpone the election if the deteriorating security situation continues.

The Congolese president said: “If we cannot end this war, we unfortunately will not be able to hold elections in 2028,” stressing that the government will not organize elections that exclude the eastern provinces affected by the conflict.

The mineral-rich provinces of North and South Kivu are witnessing a continuous military escalation between government forces and the M23 rebel movement, whom Kinshasa accuses of receiving support from Rwanda, an accusation Kigali consistently denies.

The opposition accuses the president of paving the way to remain in power.

Tshisekedi's remarks are expected to increase political tension within the country, especially among the opposition, which has long accused him of preparing a constitutional amendment that would allow him to remain in power after the end of his current term.

Opposition forces believe that linking the elections to the security situation could be used as a pretext to postpone democratic entitlements, while the government insists that the priority remains restoring stability and ensuring the participation of all regions in the electoral process.