Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi said he would be ready for a third term if the Congolese people so decide, while warning that the 2028 elections may not be possible unless insecurity in the eastern region is resolved, RFI reported on May 6. He stated that elections cannot be organized while parts of North and South Kivu, including provincial capitals and surrounding areas, remain under the control of the Rwanda-backed M23, and added that constitutional changes, likely including amendments to presidential term limits, could be considered if demanded by the population.

Tshisekedi's remarks come amid accusations from opposition groups that he has been seeking ways to remain in power beyond the constitution's two-term limit. The debate intensified after a bill outlining procedures for organizing a national referendum was submitted to parliament in March, as constitutional amendments can be approved either through a referendum called by the president or by a three-fifths parliamentary majority. Beyond the M23, over 120 armed groups operate in eastern Congo.