The United Nations, the African Union, the EU and French-speaking nations including Canada have issued a rare statement about political tensions ahead of elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo. There have been protests and violence over fears that President Joseph Kabila may overcome constitutional rules that bar him from running for a new term.
The carefully-worded statement urges stakeholders “to maintain peace and stability in the DRC, to preserve the hard-won gains and to strengthen democracy and the rule of law.”
Kabila has not officially stated his intentions. The top opposition candidate for the presidency, Moise Katumbi, went to South Africa for medical treatment shortly after a warrant for his arrest was issued.
Canada’s former governor-general Michaelle Jean is the head of of the International Organization of La Francophonie, a co-signatory of the statement.
(with files from Canadian Press)
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