Senate begins second reading of referendum law in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Kinshasa — The upper house of Parliament initiates the examination of a key electoral reform bill.
Parliamentary process advances
The Senate of the Democratic Republic of Congo has officially launched the second reading of the draft law governing the organization of a national referendum. The announcement was made during a plenary session on Wednesday by the Senate President, Sama Lukonde.
The bill, which had already passed through the National Assembly on May 9 with overwhelming support, was transmitted to the Senate for further deliberation. 348 deputies voted in favor, while only two voted against and one abstained.
The legislative text was first introduced by Deputy Paul-Gaspard Ngondankoy, representing Yahuma territory in Tshopo Province, and has now reached the Senate’s Political, Administrative, and Legal Affairs Committee (PAJ). This committee has been tasked with conducting an in-depth review and must submit its report within three days.
Key developments in the legislative process
- National Assembly approval: The draft law received broad bipartisan support, reflecting strong political consensus on the need for electoral reform.
- Senate referral: The bill has moved to the PAJ Committee, where lawmakers will scrutinize its provisions before final adoption.
- Timeline pressure: The committee’s three-day deadline underscores the urgency of the process, as the country prepares for critical institutional changes.
What’s next?
Once the PAJ Committee finalizes its report, the Senate will vote on the bill. If approved, it will proceed to the final stages of the legislative process, marking a significant step toward implementing constitutional reforms through a national vote.
The referendum bill, once enacted, will set the procedural framework for organizing a potential constitutional referendum—a move that could reshape the country’s political landscape.