Congo’s catholic bishops issue stern warning over potential third term for president Félix Tshisekedi

DRC bishops issue strong warning against third term for President Tshisekedi

Goma – The National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO) has issued a resolute warning against any political maneuver that could pave the way for a third presidential term for Félix Tshisekedi in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This significant move highlights concerns within African politics regarding governance Africa.

Gathered for an extraordinary plenary assembly from June 18 to 20, the Catholic bishops released a declaration underscoring their unwavering commitment to the strict observance of the 2006 Constitution. They cautioned that any attempt to alter the provisions governing presidential term limits could severely undermine the nation’s institutional stability and impact society Africa.

In their message, delivered by CENCO Secretary-General Donatien Nshole, the prelates emphasized that the political stability of the Democratic Republic of Congo is predicated on upholding the constitutional order and the solemn commitments made to the nation. They urged the head of state to «honor the oath sworn before God and the people» during his inauguration.

According to the CENCO, any initiative challenging the existing constitutional provisions would signify a breach of the republican pact forged through the country’s various political crises.

This firm stance emerges amid renewed political debate, spurred by the recent parliamentary adoption of a law regulating the organization of referendums. For the bishops, this legislation could potentially open the door to a popular consultation that might impact provisions considered sacrosanct, particularly those pertaining to the duration and number of presidential mandates.

Leaders of the Catholic Church further asserted that the intentions of certain political actors are becoming increasingly clear, with several voices within the political class openly discussing the possibility of a new governance cycle favoring the incumbent president.

Conversely, the presidential majority dismisses these interpretations, maintaining that the referendum law is solely intended to bolster the institutional framework and empower the sovereign people to express their views on crucial national issues.

The debate intensified following several statements from President Félix Tshisekedi himself. Last May, during a press conference in Kinshasa, the head of state affirmed that he had not sought a third term. However, he also declared his readiness to comply with the popular will should it demand such a mandate. This statement immediately fueled speculation regarding his political intentions for the 2028 elections.

In response to this unfolding situation, the CENCO calls upon the Congolese population to remain vigilant and to peacefully resist, within the bounds of the law, any attempts to modify the constitutional provisions they deem inviolable.

The Constitution of the Democratic Republic of Congo stipulates a five-year presidential term, renewable only once consecutively, thus limiting a president to a maximum of two terms. Félix Tshisekedi, who assumed office in 2019, is currently serving his second term.

The next presidential elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo are slated for December 2028, in accordance with the prevailing electoral calendar, barring any institutional modifications or unforeseen circumstances.

This decisive intervention by the CENCO reinforces the pivotal role of the Catholic Church in the political discourse of the Democratic Republic of Congo, as the prospect of a potential third term for Félix Tshisekedi gradually solidifies as one of the nation’s foremost political challenges and a key issue for governance Africa.