President Félix Tshisekedi promulgated the law on 9 November 2026. It broadens the conditions for a constitutional referendum, a change that has heightened political tensions in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
A new law expanding the conditions for a constitutional referendum has heightened political tensions in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, France 24 said. President Félix Tshisekedi promulgated Law No. 26/045 on 9 November 2026, and it took effect that day, Actualite.cd said.
The previous framework was a law of 22 June 2005, adopted during the transition specifically to put the proposed Constitution of the Third Republic to a popular vote. The legislature said the new law was intended to broaden the subjects on which referendums could be held and give full effect to Article 5 of the Constitution, which says sovereignty belongs to the people, who exercise it directly through referendums or elections, or indirectly through their representatives.
Lawmaker Paul-Gaspard Ngondankoy proposed the law, which the National Assembly and Senate adopted. It allows the president, the government after deliberation in the Council of Ministers, or half the members of each parliamentary chamber to initiate a referendum. A petition from 100,000 Congolese citizens addressed to either chamber can also initiate one.
Voters answer yes or no to a specified text or question. The law describes participation as a civic duty for registered voters who are at least 18 and enjoy their civil and political rights.
The law’s explanatory memorandum draws on Constitutional Court judgments of 15 January 2021, and 28 July 2026. It interprets Article 5 as allowing the state, in cases of absolute necessity and with approval from the people or their legitimate representatives, to adopt a new constitution or amend any existing constitutional provision by referendum.
Article 220 of the current Constitution prohibits revisions to the number and duration of presidential terms, among other matters. Opposition figures accuse the authorities of preparing to keep Tshisekedi in power beyond 2028. His camp presents the law as a return to the sovereign people.
The proposal targets imports of Israeli settlement products and services contributing to settlement construction. It must become law before the restrictions can take effect.
1 min
The court rejected LinkedIn’s request to throw out the demand entirely, but ordered a district court to substantially narrow it to protect press freedoms.
2 min
The planned museum will occupy New Delhi’s former North and South Block offices. The government estimates the project will cost about $340 million.
2 min
