Congo May Skip 2028 Elections If Eastern War Continues, Says Tshisekedi

Congo is facing an "aggression war" aimed at destabilising state institutions, looting natural resources and weakening national sovereignty, Tshisekedi told a press conference in Kinshasa, the country's capital.

Restoring security, rebuilding the army and reasserting state authority in the east remain the government's top priorities, he said.

Tshisekedi first took office in 2019 and won re-election in late 2023. Under Congo's current constitution, his second term is due to end in 2028, and new presidential elections should be held in December 2028, Xinhua news agency reported.

The DRC would not organise elections without the participation of North Kivu and South Kivu provinces, where large chunks of territory have been seized by the March 23 Movement (M23) rebel group, he said.

"If we cannot end this war, unfortunately, we will not be able to organise elections in 2028," Tshisekedi said, adding that any possible delay would not be because he refuses to hold the vote.

On the military front, Tshisekedi said, the army he inherited had been weakened by years of disorganisation, lack of equipment and infiltration.

His government has increased resources for the defence sector while continuing reforms to strengthen the armed forces, the President said.

Tshisekedi said that talks remain necessary to end a conflict that has lasted for decades, adding that any settlement must ensure the end of support for armed groups and the restoration of full state authority.

The security condition in eastern DRC has deteriorated sharply since January 2025. The M23 rebel group has launched continued offensives in North Kivu and South Kivu provinces, seizing several key cities.

- IANS