KINSHASA, Democratic Republic of Congo — President Felix Tshisekedi has signed a law that makes it easier to hold a referendum on changing Congo’s constitution, a step the opposition says is meant to let him seek a third term. The order was read on national television overnight Tuesday, Nov. 10.[1][2]
Related: Kabila Takes Over the Renamed M23 Rebel Front.
What the law does
The law eases the rules for holding a referendum on constitutional matters. It comes two years before the next scheduled elections.[1] Under the current constitution, Tshisekedi, 63, must step down at the end of his second five-year term at the end of 2028.[1]
In May, Tshisekedi said he had not planned to seek a third term, but added, “If people want me to have a third term, I will accept.”[1]
The opposition
Opposition parties recently came together in a platform called C64. It condemned any change to the constitution, any third term and any postponement of the 2028 elections, as well as any seizure of power by force. Opposition protests against what they called a “constitutional coup” were held in Kinshasa and other cities in June and September.[1]
The United Nations said at least one person was killed during the June protests, and the opposition said one of its supporters was killed in September. The main opposition parties have rejected Tshisekedi’s offer of a national dialogue.[1]
Kabila and the war in the east
Former President Joseph Kabila, who ruled from 2001 to 2019, now heads the renamed rebel movement that replaced the Rwanda-backed AFC/M23. He has criticized the push to change the constitution and vowed to end what he calls tyranny by any means, including force.[1] We covered Kabila’s move to lead the rebels.
Kabila was sentenced to death in absentia for treason just over a year ago over allegations that he colluded with the M23, and is under U.S. sanctions.[1] Washington also sanctioned Rwanda’s defense ministry over the M23.
More in Africa news.
Sources
- RFI: DR Congo leader opens way for third term under new constitution
- AllAfrica: DR Congo Leader Opens Way for Third Term Under New Constitution
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