Congo Senate adopts bill that could lead to new term for president
Democratic Republic of the Congo's President Felix Tshisekedi arrives to attend the opening session of the 19th Summit of the Francophonie at the Grand Palais in Paris, France October 5, 2024. Ludovic Marin/Pool via REUTERS
Audio By Vocalize
The bill paves the way for a referendum on a new constitution that would allow Tshisekedi, who is currently serving his second and final term, to serve a third term as if it were his first.
Eighty-nine senators took part in the vote on Monday and all voted in favour of adopting the bill. Twenty senators did not participate.
The bill must still be signed into law by Tshisekedi.
Opposition Senator Salomon Kalonda Della Idi said in a statement that the bill could "permanently Balkanize the country".
Last week, a protest against the bill turned violent when security forces fired tear gas and live ammunition to disperse demonstrators who threw rocks, local residents told Reuters, with opponent Delly Sesanga's communication team claiming on X that he was shot in the leg.
Congo's National Assembly, the lower house of parliament, has already approved the bill.
Congo's next presidential election is scheduled for 2028.
Join the Discussion
Share your perspective with the Citizen Digital community.
No comments yet
This discussion is waiting for your voice. Be the first to share your thoughts!