Lead

Lawmakers in the Democratic Republic of Congo passed a referendum bill this week that could pave the way for constitutional reform ahead of the 2028 elections, deepening a political standoff between the ruling majority and the opposition, which has warned of a "constitutional coup."

The National Assembly approved the bill on June 9, according to multiple reports. The legislation is seen as pivotal to any constitutional revision as President Felix Tshisekedi's second and final term expires in 2028. The vote took place without opposition lawmakers, who have boycotted parliament for weeks in protest.

Coverage Comparison

Two news outlets—AllAfrica and Deutsche Welle—have reported on the development, with both agreeing on the core facts: the referendum bill passed, Tshisekedi has signaled openness to a third term, and the opposition accuses him of seeking to extend his rule. The coverage differs in tone, with Deutsche Welle taking a more critical stance, using active voice and quoting analysts directly, while AllAfrica's report is more neutral in framing.

Key Claims

  • According to both AllAfrica and Deutsche Welle, an ongoing Ebola epidemic and persistent insecurity in eastern DRC have not deterred the political elite from pursuing constitutional changes.
  • Both sources report that the National Assembly passed a bill to organize referendums on June 9, which could lead to constitutional reform.
  • Tshisekedi, who has been in power since 2019, is constitutionally limited to two terms under the charter adopted 20 years ago. His term expires in 2028.
Opposition leaders interpret the referendum law as an attempt to bypass term limits, with some using the term "constitutional coup" to describe the initiative.

Perspectives

The ruling party, the Union for Democracy and Social Progress (UDPS), has launched a public campaign promoting constitutional reform. Tshisekedi said in early May, "I have not asked for a third term, but I tell you this: if the people want me to have a third term, I will accept."

Opposition figures, such as Moise Katumbi, who came second in the 2018 election, argue the referendum is designed to keep the president in power.

Some analysts see deeper motives behind the reform push. Professor Bob Kabamba of the University of Liege told Deutsche Welle: "When the president puts forward arguments for revising the Constitution, it becomes clear that the goal is not to revise the Constitution but to replace it."

The Constitutional Court may intervene in the process, according to both sources, though this is not certain. Religious groups are divided on the issue, as reported by Deutsche Welle.

Historical Context

This is not the first time Tshisekedi has sought constitutional change. In 2024, he described the Constitution as a "foreigners' constitution," without offering evidence, and announced plans for a national commission of experts to review it. Those remarks came shortly before AFC/M23 rebels—backed by Rwanda according to UN experts—seized key eastern cities including Goma, Bukavu, and Uvira.

The current standoff has led the opposition to launch the 'Article 64 Coalition for the Defense of Constitutional Order' (C64), as reported by Deutsche Welle. The coalition's name references a provision in the constitution that allows for civil disobedience in defense of the constitutional order.

Outlook

The passage of the referendum bill sets the stage for a potential constitutional referendum. However, the process remains subject to legal challenges and political opposition. The Constitutional Court's potential intervention, as well as the stance of religious groups, could shape the outcome in the coming months.