DRC Opposition Denounces Tshisekedi's Third-Term Ambitions and Election Delay Threats

DRC President Félix Tshisekedi ignited a political backlash after telling journalists he would accept a third term 'if the people wish' and suggesting the 2028 presidential election could be postponed if conflict in eastern Congo continues. Opposition leader Martin Fayulu denounced the statements as a plan to 'cling to power at any cost,' pointing to a bill advancing through the National Assembly that would allow constitutional amendments during periods of 'major institutional dysfunction.' Article 220 of the Congolese constitution explicitly prohibits amendments to presidential term limits. The Rwanda-backed M23 militia continues to clash with Congolese forces in the mineral-rich east despite a December Washington-brokered peace deal. Fayulu branded the bill 'a subterfuge designed to allow Mr. Felix Tshisekedi to carry out a real constitutional coup d'état.'