Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo (Running Africa) — A coalition of 65 civil society organizations in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has called on President Félix Tshisekedi to abandon plans for a new referendum law, warning that the legislation could eventually open the door to constitutional changes, including amendments to presidential term limits.
In a memorandum addressed to Tshisekedi and several key state institutions, the organizations argued that pursuing a referendum framework should not be a government priority as the country confronts an escalating security and humanitarian crisis in eastern Congo, widespread displacement and worsening economic conditions.
The intervention adds to a growing political debate over constitutional reform as Tshisekedi serves his second and, under the current constitution, final presidential term.
Civil Society Groups Challenge Referendum Proposal
The proposed legislation would establish a legal framework governing how national referendums are organized and conducted in the DRC.
However, the 65 organizations argue that spending government resources and political attention on the initiative is inappropriate while millions of Congolese face insecurity, displacement and economic hardship.
The groups urged the government to instead prioritize restoring stability, addressing the humanitarian emergency and improving living conditions across the country.
Among the organizations backing the memorandum are No to Constitutional Change, Civil Bridge, Génération Z RDC, LUCHA-RDC and Filimbi.
Concerns Grow Over Possible Tshisekedi Third Term
Central to the opposition is concern that establishing a referendum framework could ultimately facilitate constitutional amendments affecting presidential term limits.
Tshisekedi is currently serving his second term, which is scheduled to end in 2028. Under the existing constitutional framework, presidents are limited to two terms.
Critics fear a referendum could eventually be used to alter those restrictions and allow Tshisekedi to seek a third term, although the proposed referendum law itself does not automatically change presidential term limits.
Civil society groups warned that pursuing constitutional changes under the current circumstances could deepen political divisions and create further instability.
Eastern DR Congo Crisis Remains a Major Concern
The political debate is unfolding as the country continues to confront conflict and displacement in its eastern provinces.
Armed violence has uprooted millions of people, disrupted livelihoods and placed enormous pressure on communities and humanitarian organizations.
Civil society groups argue that these challenges, combined with broader economic pressures facing Congolese households, should take precedence over establishing a new referendum mechanism.
The dispute comes amid wider demonstrations and political opposition to constitutional reform, with protesters in parts of eastern DRC recently rallying against potential changes they fear could extend presidential tenure.
Tshisekedi’s UDPS Defends Referendum Law
Tshisekedi’s ruling Union for Democracy and Social Progress (UDPS) has defended the proposal, arguing that the legislation is necessary to address a gap in Congolese law.
Supporters say the measure would establish clear rules for holding referendums and provide a formal mechanism through which citizens can exercise popular sovereignty on major national questions.
The government and its supporters have therefore presented the initiative as a legal and democratic reform rather than an attempt to extend Tshisekedi’s presidency.
Constitutional Debate Intensifies Ahead of 2028
With Tshisekedi’s current mandate due to expire in 2028, any discussion surrounding constitutional reform and presidential term limits is likely to remain politically sensitive.
For opponents, the referendum legislation raises concerns about the possibility of future changes to the country’s presidential system. For supporters, it represents a necessary framework for allowing Congolese voters to decide major national questions directly.
The growing dispute places constitutional reform, presidential term limits and the future of Tshisekedi’s leadership at the center of an increasingly consequential political debate in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
