DR Congo: Opposition Accuses Tshisekedi of Third-Term Power Grab

Is this referendum bill democratic progress or a constitutional coup in disguise?

Published JUN 17

DR Congo: Opposition Accuses Tshisekedi of Third-Term Power Grab

story

Above: DRC President Felix Tshisekedi at the Washington Hilton on Feb. 5. Image credit: Alex Wong/Getty Images

The Spin

Pro-government narrative

The DRC Senate passing a referendum bill is a legitimate step toward letting Congolese citizens decide their constitutional future. Tshisekedi has said that any change to presidential term limits would require a public vote, making this a democratic process. With the country facing an M23 insurgency and recurring Ebola outbreaks, many may see value in continuity and experienced leadership. Ultimately, the decision should rest with the electorate.

Africanews Punch Newspapers Daily Trust

Government-critical narrative

Tshisekedi is engineering a constitutional coup, plain as day — pushing a referendum bill while warning that elections may not be possible because of war, making any promised public vote a contradiction. The DRC's two-term limit exists to prevent another Mobutu-style concentration of power, yet Tshisekedi is now seeking to rewrite the rules. Security crackdowns on peaceful protesters reinforce fears that this is about extending rule, not protecting democracy.

The Globe and Mail FOX News ChimpReports