Democratic Republic of Congo: understanding the referendum law and its constitutional implications

Democratic Republic of Congo: examining the referendum organization law

In a decisive vote, the deputies of the National Assembly have given their overwhelming approval to the proposed bill concerning the organization of a national referendum. For opposition factions, this legislative endorsement marks the initial phase of a process perceived as potentially leading to significant modifications of the Constitution. Ultimately, they fear it could pave the way for President Felix Tshisekedi to pursue a controversial third term.

This raises crucial questions: What are the concrete provisions outlined in this text? How precisely could this legislation facilitate a revision of the nation’s fundamental law? Moreover, what are the subsequent procedural steps that might culminate in a full constitutional overhaul?