DR Congo president hints at extending his term and delaying polls

Democratic Republic of Congo President Felix Tshisekedi's statement that he would accept a third term if 'the people want it' raises serious concerns about constitutional observance and democratic governance in Central Africa's largest economy and mineral powerhouse. The DRC is critical to global cobalt, copper, and coltan supply chains, and political instability directly threatens supply security for the tech and EV sectors. Tshisekedi's administration has faced repeated criticism from election observers and human rights groups regarding electoral impartiality and opposition repression. The hint at term extension signals potential constitutional manipulation and could trigger fresh opposition protests and international intervention calls. The African Union and Western governments have flagged governance concerns, and any perceived subversion of 2028 electoral timelines could further destabilize Central Africa and complicate critical mineral supply contracts.