Full Breakdown
Congo Senate Advances Constitutional Amendment for Potential Third Term
6/17/2026, 12:18:00 AM
Senate Adoption of Constitutional Amendment Bill
On 16 June 2026, the Senate of the Democratic Republic of Congo voted unanimously among the 89 participating members to adopt a constitutional amendment bill that would allow President Felix Tshisekedi to run for a third term. Twenty senators were absent. The bill now awaits the President’s signature.
Political Context and Legislative Process
The amendment follows approval by the National Assembly and is intended to trigger a national referendum on a new constitution. If passed, the revised text would treat a third presidential term as a first, resetting term-limit rules. The next presidential election is scheduled for 2028.
Key Figures and Stakeholders
President Felix Tshisekedi, in his second and constitutionally final term, stands to benefit. Opposition Senator Salomon Kalonda Della Idi warned of severe national division. Opposition figure Delly Sesanga, whose team reported a leg injury during protests, is a vocal critic.
Legislative Timeline
- 16 June 2026: Senate adopts amendment (89 votes for, 20 absent).
- National Assembly already approved.
- Bill requires presidential signature before a referendum can be held; election due 2028.
Official Statements & Responses
Opposition Senator Salomon Kalonda Della Idi warned that the amendment could lead to permanent division of the country. No comment from President Tshisekedi or his administration was reported.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics argue the change undermines democratic safeguards by allowing a leader to extend tenure beyond constitutional limits. The “permanent Balkanization” warning highlights fears of national fragmentation.
On-the-Ground Reports
Local residents said security forces used tear gas and live ammunition to disperse rock-throwing demonstrators in Kinshasa. Delly Sesanga’s team claimed he was shot in the leg.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources do not include a response from President Tshisekedi. Details on the referendum schedule, voter eligibility and specific constitutional provisions remain unclear.
Verbatim Quotes
- “permanently Balkanize the country” — Salomon Kalonda Della Idi, Opposition Senator
- “• The bill paves the way for a referendum on a new constitution that would allow Tshisekedi — who is currently serving his second and final term — to serve a third term as if it were his first.” — Source text
- “• Last week, a protest against the bill turned violent when security forces fired tear gas and live ammunition to disperse demonstrators who threw rocks, local residents told Reuters, with opponent Delly Sesanga's communication team claiming on X that he was shot in the leg.” — Source text
- “• The bill must still be signed into law by Tshisekedi.” — Source text
Implications and What’s Next
The amendment now awaits President Tshisekedi’s signature. After signing, a national referendum would be required before the scheduled 2028 presidential election.
