Opposition parties in the Democratic Republic of Congo have formed a new coalition to challenge a possible constitutional revision [1].
The move follows signals from the presidency that the current term limits could be altered. If successful, such a reform would allow President Félix Tshisekedi to seek a third term, a prospect that critics say threatens the nation's democratic stability.
On May 7, 2026 [2], President Tshisekedi indicated he would be open to extending his rule. "I am open to standing for a third term, if the Congolese people want it," Tshisekedi said [3].
In response, the Lamuka coalition announced its formation on May 20, 2026 [4]. The group argues that altering the constitution to favor the incumbent creates a "two-tier democracy" where the ruling party rewrites the rules to maintain power [5].
Opposition leader Étienne Tshisekedi has taken a firm stance against the potential changes. "We will not allow any constitutional amendment that would extend the president’s mandate beyond the current term," Tshisekedi said [6].
The coalition is primarily operating out of the capital, Kinshasa, to organize resistance against the proposed amendments [7]. The opposition fears that a third term would not only extend the president's tenure but could also lead to delays in future elections [8].
This political standoff occurs as the Lamuka coalition warns that the integrity of the Congolese electoral system is at risk. The coalition maintains that the rule of law must prevail over the personal ambitions of the presidency, a sentiment echoed in their recent public statements [5].
“"I am open to standing for a third term, if the Congolese people want it,"”
The formation of the Lamuka coalition signals a hardening of opposition resolve against executive term-limit extensions in the DRC. By framing the issue as a 'two-tier democracy,' the opposition is attempting to mobilize public sentiment against constitutional manipulation, which has historically been a flashpoint for political instability in the region.
