Tshisekedi Third-Term Bid Sparks Protests Across DRC
Dozens of people have reportedly been arrested in the Democratic Republic of Congo following protests in Kinshasa and several other major cities over proposed constitutional amendments that could allow President Felix Tshisekedi to seek a third term. The demonstrations were organised by Coalition Article 64, known as C64, a broad opposition alliance campaigning against the proposed changes. Police reportedly used force to disperse protesters in Kinshasa, with Reuters reporting that tear gas and warning shots were fired as hundreds of demonstrators took part in the protests. Videos shared on social media showed protesters waving flags belonging to different political parties. The demonstrations reportedly escalated after supporters and opponents of Tshisekedi clashed during protests over the proposed constitutional reforms, prompting police intervention. Tshisekedi has been president since 2019 and is expected to complete his second five-year term in 2028. Under the current constitution, he would not be eligible to seek another term, making the proposed changes a major focus of the political debate. The protests come as opposition groups raise concerns that the constitutional reform process could remove or alter existing restrictions on presidential tenure.
The debate intensified after Tshisekedi, who is 63, said last month that he would be willing to serve a third term in the conflict-plagued country “if the people wish it.” His comments have added to concerns among opposition groups, which have accused the government of seeking to create a path for the president to remain in office beyond 2028. In June, months before Tshisekedi made the remarks, the DRC Senate passed a bill providing for the holding of referendums in the country. The proposed constitutional changes and the possibility of a referendum have since become central issues in the political dispute. Martin Fayulu, a former presidential candidate and one of the leaders of C64, said the opposition was considering filing an international complaint against Tshisekedi over alleged violence against opposition activists during the demonstrations. While the government’s position on the proposed reforms remains part of the ongoing political process, opposition groups have continued to mobilise against changes they believe could affect presidential term limits. The latest protests underline the growing political tensions surrounding the proposed constitutional amendments and the question of whether Tshisekedi should be allowed to seek another term after his current mandate ends in 2028.
#UTVAfrica#
