Kathmandu— With over two years until President Felix Tshisekedi's current mandate ends, the Democratic Republic of Congo is embroiled in a political dispute centered on constitutional reform and the 2028 presidential elections. The debate, sparked by the president’s suggestion he might accept a third term if requested by the people, has ignited fears among opposition groups that the existing two-term limit could be circumvented through changes to the constitution. This conflict unfolds against the backdrop of ongoing fighting in eastern DRC involving armed groups like M23 and the Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC), further complicating efforts to ensure a stable political transition and potentially jeopardizing the feasibility of holding elections.

Constitutional Reform Debate Heats Up

In June, the Congolese Parliament passed legislation outlining conditions for organizing a referendum, a move critics view as a potential pathway to altering presidential term limits. While the Constitutional Court approved the law in July with some reservations, President Tshisekedi subsequently requested that parliament reconsider it based on the court’s observations, an issue slated for discussion during its September session. The legislation proposes a constituent assembly followed by a referendum if state institutions experience “major dysfunction,” but opponents fear this mechanism could be exploited to extend Tshisekedi's time in office.

Opposition Mobilization and Protests

The main opposition coalition, C64 (Article 64), named after the constitutional article opposing unconstitutional power grabs, has vowed to resist any attempts to allow Tshisekedi to remain in office beyond 2028. They have announced a nationwide mobilization for September 15, planning demonstrations in Kinshasa that will converge on the Palais du Peuple, the seat of parliament. Similar protests took place in late July in Goma and Bukavu, demonstrating widespread opposition to potential constitutional changes. Jean-Marc Kabund, an opposition politician, stressed that no legal maneuvers should bypass the current constitution, warning it could deepen divisions amidst ongoing conflict.

Conflict in the East Complicates Matters

The constitutional dispute is occurring concurrently with a significant armed conflict in eastern DRC, where groups like M23 and the AFC control territory including Goma and Bukavu. The Congolese government accuses Rwanda of supporting M23, allegations Kigali denies. This war raises questions about whether elections will even be possible in 2028, as Tshisekedi has warned that fighting could prevent a credible vote in areas outside government control. Emmanuel Bugama, a political analyst based in Bunia, argued that national interests should take precedence over these political disputes.

Diverging Views from Goma

In Goma, civil society activist Gentil Mulume stated that any constitutional change extending Tshisekedi’s mandate would not be recognized in territory controlled by M23 and the AFC. He highlighted a deeper divide between Kinshasa and the east, suggesting continued rule by Tshisekedi could be seen as domination and advocating for self-determination to be part of the political conversation. This illustrates how the constitutional debate is interpreted differently in regions already outside government control.

Public Understanding and Dialogue Efforts

There are concerns about public understanding of the proposed changes, with some citizens admitting they lack sufficient knowledge of the constitution. Kevin Kalala, a retailer in Kinshasa, emphasized the need for greater civic education on constitutional matters. In response to rising tensions, President Tshisekedi has proposed an inclusive national dialogue involving various stakeholders, though he excludes those accused of supporting Rwanda or armed rebellion. Martin Fayulu, who contested the 2018 election against Tshisekedi, has called for the inclusion of former President Joseph Kabila and Corneille Nangaa in these talks.

The constitutional dispute remains a critical issue as the DRC approaches 2028, with the outcome potentially shaping the country’s political landscape and impacting efforts to address ongoing conflict and ensure a peaceful transfer of power.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.