KINSHASA, MARCH 8 — The opposition in the Democratic Republic of Congo has expressed outrage over President Felix Tshisekedi’s “attempt” to postpone the general elections scheduled for 20 December, citing persistent insecurity in the eastern region of the country.
Cherubin Okende, the spokesperson for opposition politician Moise Katumbi, was quoted by French broadcaster RFI as saying that “the situation in the east of the country should not constitute an excuse for the president to postpone the elections.” He reminded Mr Tshisekedi of the promise he made in the early days of his presidency to set up the army headquarters in the east to effectively deal with armed groups.
“Four years later, the regime is still unable to restore peace in this part of the country,” he said.
Opposition leader Martin Fayulu pointed out that according to article 70 of the constitution, the president is elected for a five-year term. “Come 23 January 2024, Tshisekedi must vacate his post,” he said.
The two opposition politicians were reacting to Mr Tshisekedi’s remarks to French President Emmanuel Macron that the conflict in the east may delay the elections.
However, critics believe that the ruling coalition may use various challenges as an excuse to postpone the elections. – BBC News
