Tensions Rise in DR Congo Over Referendum Critics Call a Third-Term Bid

Political tension is rising in the Democratic Republic of Congo over plans for a new constitution. The opposition accuses President Felix Tshisekedi of using the proposed referendum to seek a third term, which the current charter would otherwise bar. Opposition groups postponed planned protests after the African Union offered to mediate.

Tshisekedi's supporters describe the effort as reform, while critics see it as an attempt to reset term limits, a pattern seen elsewhere among leaders seeking to extend their time in office. The dispute matters beyond Congolese politics because the country is one of the world's largest sources of cobalt and copper, minerals central to batteries and electronics.

The stakes for supply are real. Instability around a contested constitutional process in a major mining nation introduces risk into commodity chains that manufacturers and technology firms depend on.