Our Washington Office requests that we encourage Congress to influence a lawful and peaceful election this December in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Action: Ask your senators to support a resolution being introduced to this end (S. Res. 485)
Legal background: In 2016 the DRC adopted a new constitution that limits presidents to two consecutive terms. President Joseph Kabila’s second term is set to end on December 19, 2016. Civil society in the DRC and international actors are urging respect for the constitution and timely elections to take place in November 2016, which would not be normal. The Senate resolution (S. Res. 485), introduced by Jeff Flake (R-Ariz.) would support dialogue between the different parties, timely elections and a peaceful transition of power.
Political background: Kabila is not looking like he will relinquish power. He has been mounting his “security” forces to undermine a substantial rival, Moises Katumbi. Katumbi is based in Lubumbashi, Kabila in Kinshasa, worlds away in the huge central African country. Katumbi is a billionaire whose flamboyant mansion is guarded nightly by a “citizen army” who also hope to gain some kind of gratuity for their loyalty.
Faith reflection: How very good and pleasant it is when kindred live together in unity (Psalm 133:1). When a society lives in harmony, blessings of God abound (Jeremiah 29:11).