In the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), President Felix Tshisekedi's potential third term bid is fuelling a heated political battle, with opposition groups vehemently opposing any attempt to alter the constitution. With two years remaining in his current mandate, the DRC parliament recently passed legislation setting out conditions for a referendum on constitutional changes, sparking widespread protests and concern over national cohesion. The proposed reform aims to address institutional issues, but critics view it as an attempt to bypass the existing two-term limit and extend Tshisekedi's tenure. The opposition coalition, known as C64, has vowed to resist any such moves and has planned a nationwide mobilization for September 15. Meanwhile, the country is also grappling with an ongoing conflict in the east, with M23 rebels seizing territory including Goma and Bukavu. The government accuses Rwanda of supporting M23, a charge that Kigali denies. The war and potential constitutional changes have raised questions about the viability of the 2028 elections, with Tshisekedi warning that continued fighting could make a credible vote impossible. As the DRC navigates these challenges, national interests are at stake, with civil society activists in Goma, now under M23 control, stating that any constitutional change extending Tshisekedi's mandate would not be recognized in their territory. The deeper divide between Kinshasa and the east is becoming increasingly apparent, raising concerns about the country's future stability.