In a significant move for the political landscape of the Democratic Republic of Congo, the National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO) has issued a stern warning regarding any political maneuvers that could facilitate a third term for President Félix Tshisekedi.

Following an extraordinary plenary assembly held from June 18 to 20, the Catholic leadership released a formal statement reaffirming their commitment to the 2006 Constitution. The bishops cautioned that attempts to modify the legal framework governing presidential term limits could seriously undermine the country’s institutional stability.

A call for constitutional integrity

The message, delivered by Donatien Nshole, Secretary General of CENCO, reminded the head of state of the gravity of his inauguration oath. The prelates urged Félix Tshisekedi to remain faithful to the promises he made before both the nation and God when he took office. According to the bishops, any move to bypass current constitutional restrictions would represent a violation of the democratic agreement established to end previous political cycles of unrest.

This intervention comes amid rising tensions following the Parliament’s recent adoption of a law regulating referendums. The Church hierarchy fears this legislative tool could be utilized to trigger a public vote on constitutional articles previously considered untouchable, specifically those limiting the duration and number of presidential mandates.

Political debate and public vigilance

While the presidential majority maintains that the referendum law is simply a mechanism to strengthen institutions and allow for direct citizen participation on national issues, the clergy remains skeptical. They point out that several political figures have already begun publicly discussing a potential extension of the current administration’s tenure.

The controversy was further fueled by Félix Tshisekedi‘s own remarks in Kinshasa last May. Although the President stated he had not requested a third term, his comment that he would follow the “will of the people” if they demanded it has sparked widespread speculation regarding his intentions for 2028.

In response, CENCO is calling on the Congolese population to remain alert. They advocate for peaceful and legal opposition to any attempt to alter the locked provisions of the DRC Constitution. Currently, the law restricts a president to two five-year terms. Félix Tshisekedi, who began his first term in 2019, is presently serving his second and final mandate under the existing legal framework.

With the next presidential elections scheduled for December 2028, the Catholic Church’s firm stance highlights the growing friction over the nation’s democratic future and the integrity of its electoral calendar.