DRC Senate passes referendum bill enabling potential third term for President Tshisekedi

The Democratic Republic of Congo's Senate approved a controversial bill on June 16, 2026, establishing the technical framework for constitutional referendums. This legislative move is viewed by opposition coalitions as a precursor to removing presidential term limits, allowing Felix Tshisekedi to seek a third term in 2028. The passage of the bill sparked skirmishes between pro-government supporters and opposition demonstrators in Kinshasa, with security forces using tear gas and rubber bullets. The bill now proceeds to the Constitutional Court for final validation before presidential signature.

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