Key facts
- The Senate of the Democratic Republic of Congo has approved a constitutional amendment bill.
- The bill could allow President Felix Tshisekedi to serve a third term, despite being in his second and final term.
- The legislation passed with 89 senators voting in favor.
- The National Assembly had previously approved the bill.
- Opposition figures have voiced concerns that the bill could destabilize the country.
- A recent protest against the bill turned violent.
The Senate of the Democratic Republic of Congo has passed a bill that could pave the way for President Felix Tshisekedi to seek a third term in office. The legislation, which aims to alter the constitution, was approved by 89 senators on Monday, with 20 abstentions. This move follows a violent protest in the capital, Kinshasa, last week, where security forces used tear gas and live ammunition to disperse demonstrators. Opposition Senator Salomon Kalonda Della Idi has warned that the bill could lead to the "permanent Balkanization of the country." The National Assembly, the lower house of parliament, has already given its approval to the bill. For the legislation to become law, it must be signed by President Tshisekedi, who is currently serving his second and final term. The country's next presidential election is scheduled for 2028.