Nangaa warns Tshisekedi’s time in office is “limited” amid constitutional reform tensions in DR Congo

By The Inspirer.

Corneille Nangaa Yobeluo, leader of the AFC/M23 coalition, has warned that President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of the Congo is nearing the end of his time in office, arguing that any attempt to amend the Constitution to extend his rule would ultimately fail.

Nangaa made the remarks during a press briefing in Goma on May 8, 2026, responding to ongoing political debate in Kinshasa over possible constitutional reforms and the future of national elections.

His comments followed statements by President Tshisekedi on May 6, 2026, in which he said Congolese institutions were considering reviewing the Constitution. He also linked the possibility of holding the 2028 elections to the security situation in eastern DR Congo, noting that continued conflict could make elections impossible.

Tshisekedi further stated that constitutional revision should not be interpreted as a move toward a third mandate, adding that while he is not seeking one, he would accept continued leadership if it reflected the will of the population.

In response, Nangaa accused the President of inconsistency and political uncertainty, arguing that constitutional changes would not succeed and urging citizens to resist any attempt to extend presidential rule beyond constitutional limits.

He further claimed that Tshisekedi’s time in office was running out and suggested that he may later distance himself from responsibility for current national challenges.

“He will leave in the coming days. Do not be surprised,” Nangaa said, adding that future political developments could see shifting narratives about governance responsibility.

Nangaa also called for broader political mobilization, urging support from citizens in Kinshasa, the diaspora, and even some members within the ruling coalition Union Sacrée, whom he claimed are already engaging with AFC/M23 in private discussions.