The Senate of Congo has approved a bill that may pave the way for a new term for the president

The Senate of the Democratic Republic of Congo has passed a bill to amend the constitution, potentially paving the way for President Felix Tshisekedi to seek a third term in office. This development comes just days after a protest against the bill escalated into violence in the capital, Kinshasa.

The bill sets the stage for a referendum on a new constitution that would enable Tshisekedi — currently in his second and final term — to serve a third term as though it were his first.

Eighty-nine senators participated in the vote on Monday, and all cast their votes in favor of adopting the bill. Twenty senators abstained from participation.

The bill still requires the signature of Tshisekedi to become law.

Opposition Senator Salomon Kalonda Della Idi stated that the bill could “permanently Balkanize the country.

Last week, a protest against the bill escalated into violence when security forces deployed tear gas and live ammunition to disperse demonstrators who were throwing rocks. Local residents reported to Reuters that opponent Delly Sesanga’s communication team stated on X that he was shot in the leg.

Congo’s National Assembly, the lower house of parliament, has already given its approval to the bill.

Congo’s upcoming presidential election is set for 2028.