President Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo has announced plans to explore revising the country’s constitution.
This move could potentially eliminate presidential term limits, allowing Tshisekedi to seek a third term in office.
Tshisekedi made the announcement during a speech in Kisangani, suggesting the constitution no longer fits the country’s needs.
He said a commission would be established next year to study possible amendments to the constitution, which was ratified in 2005.
The proposed changes have sparked fears of political instability in the mineral-rich nation, which has faced decades of conflict.
Tshisekedi’s critics argue the move is an attempt to hold onto power, similar to actions taken by leaders in Guinea and Cameroon.
Opposition leaders in Congo, such as Claudel Lubaya and Moise Katumbi, have voiced strong opposition to the potential reforms.
They argue that Congo’s issues stem from poor governance, not the constitution.
Tshisekedi, who won re-election in December, is currently serving his second and final term under the existing constitutional limits.
