DRC bishops warn against third term bid for President Tshisekedi
Goma, June 23, 2026 – In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the National Episcopal Conference of the Congo (CENCO) has issued a stern warning against any political moves that could pave the way for a third term for President Félix Tshisekedi.
Church leaders emphasize constitutional adherence
The Catholic bishops, gathered in an extraordinary plenary session from June 18 to 20, reaffirmed their commitment to the strict enforcement of the 2006 Constitution. They cautioned that any attempt to alter presidential term limits could jeopardize the country’s institutional stability.
The prelates, speaking through the CENCO Secretary-General Donatien Nshole, stressed that the DRC’s political stability hinges on upholding constitutional order and the pledges 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 bishops, any move to challenge the existing constitutional provisions would amount to a breach of the republican pact forged during the country’s recurring political crises.
Recent legislative changes fuel concerns
The CENCO’s stance comes amid revived political debate following Parliament’s recent adoption of a law regulating referendum processes. The bishops argue this law could open the door to a public consultation potentially targeting entrenched provisions, particularly those on presidential terms and mandates.
The Church leadership also highlighted the growing clarity of political ambitions, with several voices in the political arena openly discussing the possibility of extending the current president’s governance cycle.
In response, the presidential majority dismissed these concerns, asserting that the referendum law aims solely to strengthen institutional frameworks and empower the sovereign people to weigh in on national priorities.
President’s remarks spark speculation
The debate intensified after President Félix Tshisekedi’s statements in May. Speaking at a press conference in Kinshasa, he declared he had not sought a third term while adding he would abide by the popular will if demanded. The remarks fueled immediate speculation about his political intentions ahead of 2028.
The CENCO has called on the Congolese population to remain vigilant and resist—through legal and peaceful means—any attempt to amend constitutional provisions it considers locked in place.
The DRC Constitution caps presidential mandates at five years, renewable only once consecutively, allowing a maximum of two terms. Félix Tshisekedi, in office since 2019, is currently serving his second mandate.
The next presidential elections in the Democratic Republic of the Congo are scheduled for December 2028, barring institutional changes or unforeseen circumstances.
This latest intervention underscores the Catholic Church’s pivotal role in the DRC’s political discourse, as the prospect of a third term for President Tshisekedi increasingly dominates national conversations.
Photo: Their Excellencies Willy Ngumbi, Bishop of Goma, and Donatien Nshole, CENCO Secretary-General, arrive for a meeting with AFC/M23 officials at the Serena Hotel in Goma on February 12, 2025 ©SOS Médias Burundi
