By John Ikani
President Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo has hinted at changing the country’s constitution, including a possible adjustment to presidential term limits.
The hint made during a recent speech in Kisangani on October 23 came as a surprise to many since Tshisekedi had earlier promised to “scrupulously respect constitutional obligations.”
Tshisekedi called the current constitution “outdated” and not suited to the country’s present needs. He announced plans to set up a commission in 2025 to draft a new constitution, emphasizing that the final decision on term limits would be left to the people.
Government officials have shown support for these changes, with the ruling party’s secretary general even encouraging members on October 10 to promote constitutional revisions among supporters.
Term limits have been a sensitive issue in Congo’s history. The 2006 constitution, created during former President Joseph Kabila’s rule, includes article 220, which strictly prevents changes to “the number and length of terms of office of the President.”
However, Kabila managed to hold onto power beyond his second term, which was supposed to end in December 2016, by using force. At that time, Tshisekedi was part of the opposition, calling on Kabila to respect the constitutional limits.
Many human rights groups, civil society organizations, and opposition leaders are now worried about Tshisekedi’s proposal, fearing he might try to get around the two-term limit. His re-election in December 2023 was marked by violence, raising concerns among critics.
Since then, the government has increased its crackdown on opposition voices, restricting freedoms like expression and peaceful protests. Reports indicate that at least three opposition politicians and two human rights activists are currently detained without clear reasons.
