DR Congo Enacts Referendum Law Amid Term-Limit Fears

Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi has signed a law establishing procedures for national referendums, including votes on a new constitution or constitutional amendments. The move has intensified concerns among opposition groups and civil society that a referendum could be used to remove or alter the presidential term limits that currently require him to leave office after his second term in 2028. Tshisekedi has denied seeking a third term but has said he would accept one if voters wanted it; no referendum date has been announced. Supporters describe the law as a way to give citizens a voice in national decisions, while critics argue it could sidestep constitutional protections. The debate is unfolding amid conflict in eastern Congo and opposition protests against what they call an effort to prolong Tshisekedi’s rule.