DRC's Tshisekedi Open to Third Term via Referendum

Democratic Republic of Congo President Félix Tshisekedi stated on Wednesday during a nationally televised press conference in Kinshasa that he would accept a third presidential term if demanded by the people through a referendum, despite the constitution limiting presidents to two terms. Tshisekedi, who took office in 2019 following a contested election, is set to complete his second term in December 2028.

"I did not ask for a third term, but I tell you this: if the people want me to have a third term, I will accept," Tshisekedi said. He insisted that any constitutional revisions would require public approval via referendum and should not be linked to personal ambitions. Opposition groups expressed alarm, accusing the president of seeking to extend his hold on power amid concerns over democratic backsliding in a nation with a history of disputed elections and political violence.

The announcement occurs against a backdrop of ongoing conflict in eastern Congo, where the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group controls key cities in North and South Kivu provinces. Tshisekedi warned that the unrest, which has displaced millions and fueled a severe humanitarian crisis, could prevent the...