Two decades after the 2005 referendum law, lawmakers have passed a new bill regulating referendum conditions, particularly for constitutional reforms.

While critics argue the move paves the way for President Félix Tshisekedi to seek a third consecutive term, supporters view it as a reinforcement of popular sovereignty. Others warn the text may conflict with the Constitution itself.

Proponents of the reform, including some legal experts in Kinshasa, emphasize its alignment with democratic principles. Maria Eloyi, a constitutional lawyer, contends that “since the Constitution is the people’s voice, any amendment must go through a referendum—a process that cannot be bypassed, whether for political interests or to address outdated constitutional clauses.”

Disconnect with public priorities

Some citizens share this perspective. Placide Lukeka, a young resident of Kinshasa, expresses optimism about constitutional change, stating “I’ve long awaited this initiative because I believe in reforming the Constitution. Those claiming it’s purely political are mistaken. Transitioning to a new Republic could bring positive change to our nation.”

Legal and political opposition

Ange Aloki voices a contrasting view, arguing the referendum debate distracts from pressing national issues. “I don’t support this,” she says. “There are far more urgent matters in the country. Why divert so much energy toward this debate, especially two years before elections? Where were lawmakers all this time to address constitutional reform?”

The bill has also sparked legal debates. Godefroy Mwanabwato, a lawyer based in Tshopo Province, believes the Constitutional Court could strike down parts or all of the law after parliamentary review. “The Court can remove any provisions exceeding the legislature’s authority to regulate referendums,” he asserts.

Political opposition has been vocal. Opposition lawmakers boycotted the plenary sessions during the bill’s passage, and their leaders organized a citywide strike on June 3 and a sit-in on June 13.