Opposition leaders in the Democratic Republic of Congo staged rallies in Kinshasa on June 12, 2026, to protest a proposed constitutional amendment [1, 2].

The protests signal a deepening political crisis in the nation as critics argue the move would dismantle democratic safeguards. The proposed changes could allow President Félix Tshisekedi to seek a third term, bypassing the current two-term limit [1, 3].

Demonstrations centered near the parliament building in the capital city [2, 4]. The gatherings turned violent, leading to clashes between security forces and opposition supporters [2, 4]. Protesters demanded the immediate resignation of the president, asserting that the constitutional shift is a maneuver to extend his stay in power indefinitely [1, 2].

President Tshisekedi has remained open to the possibility of remaining in office. "If the people of Congo ask me to return, I am at their disposal," Tshisekedi said [4].

The opposition maintains that the proposed amendment violates the spirit of the country's governance laws. They argue that allowing a third term creates a precedent for authoritarianism, a recurring theme in the region's political history [1, 2].

Security forces deployed to the area around the parliament building to contain the crowds [2, 4]. While the government has not officially confirmed the status of the amendment, the intensity of the June rallies suggests a significant divide between the administration and the political opposition [1, 2].

“"If the people of Congo ask me to return, I am at their disposal."”

The push for a third term in the Democratic Republic of Congo represents a critical tension between executive ambition and constitutional law. By attempting to alter term limits, the administration risks further destabilizing a region already prone to political volatility. If the amendment passes despite widespread opposition, it could lead to prolonged civil unrest and a loss of international diplomatic support for the current government.