The suspense surrounding a crucial constitutional matter in the Democratic Republic of Congo has finally ended. The Constitutional Court in Kinshasa recently affirmed the conformity of the law governing the organization of a referendum with the nation’s constitution.

This pivotal decision has ignited a deep division within the Congolese political landscape. Opposition figures contend that this law could pave the way for constitutional amendments, potentially enabling President Félix Tshisekedi to extend his tenure in office. Conversely, the presidential camp vehemently rejects this interpretation, asserting that the proposed reforms are solely aimed at enhancing the functionality of state institutions.

President Tshisekedi, aged 63, assumed power in the DRC in 2019 and is set to conclude his second term at the end of 2028. The current Congolese Constitution explicitly states that the number and duration of presidential mandates are not subject to revision. However, during a rare press conference in early May, President Tshisekedi declared that while he had not actively sought a third term, he would