The National Assembly of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has passed a bill paving the way for referendums that could lead to constitutional reforms ahead of the 2028 elections. The vote was conducted in the absence of opposition lawmakers, who have boycotted Parliament for weeks in protest, describing the initiative as a "constitutional coup." In May, President Félix Tshisekedi signalled his openness to constitutional revisions that could potentially allow him to seek a third term in office and even result in the postponement of elections. His remarks have fuelled concerns among critics and opposition groups that the proposed reforms could be used to extend his stay in power beyond current constitutional limits. Lulu Gaboo spoke to Lawyer and Member of the Union for Democracy and Social Progress (UDPS), Simon Pierre Mukanda

<p>The National Assembly of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has passed a bill paving the way for referendums that could lead to constitutional reforms&nbsp;ahead of the 2028 elections.&nbsp;The vote was conducted in the absence of opposition lawmakers, who have boycotted Parliament for weeks in protest, describing the initiative as a "constitutional coup." In May, President F&eacute;lix Tshisekedi signalled his openness to constitutional revisions that could potentially allow him to seek a third term in office and even result in the postponement of elections. His remarks have fuelled concerns among critics and opposition groups that the proposed reforms could be used to extend his stay in power beyond current constitutional limits. Lulu Gaboo spoke to Lawyer and Member of the Union for Democracy and Social Progress (UDPS), Simon Pierre Mukanda</p>

Fast-paced news and current affairs updates, dealing with topical issues & breaking stories.

<p>Fast-paced news and current affairs updates, dealing with topical issues &amp; breaking stories.</p>