Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Kinshasa (Agenzia Fides) - Tension in Kinshasa, capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo rises, where the results of the presidential and political elections of December 30 are expected to be announced. Dozens of policemen were deployed this morning, January 9, in front of the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) that will have to communicate the official outcome of the vote. The announcement of the results was expected on Sunday, January 6, but CENI postponed the date, arousing the protests of the opposition. Yesterday evening, January 8th, CENI stated that the results will be announced at the latest within the next 48 hours.
"This delay, combined with the recent blocking of Internet connections and the explosion of strong controversy over the proclamation of the results, suggest that new difficulties may arise" says a note of 7 January sent to Agenzia Fides by the "Justice and Peace" Commission of the Conference Episcopal of Belgium. The Congolese and Belgian Church maintain relations of fraternal collaboration. "Justice and Peace" stigmatizes the prudent attitude of the European Union: "While the African Union and the United States have expressed themselves in favor of respect for the choice of voters, the European Union and most of its member states remain silent for the time being".
"Belgium - continues the note - which joined the UN Security Council earlier this year, must take its responsibility and support the electoral process in the DRC with other member States of the Council during the meeting held on January 8th". "It is essential that the members of the Council, in particular the support of China and Russia, send a clear and unanimous message to CENI and the DRC authorities: the choice of voters, expressed in the polls, must be respected. It goes to the credibility of the electoral process and consequently that of the next President of the Country. Otherwise there is a risk of serious conflicts in the country", said Clara Debeve, responsible for the "Justice and Peace of Central Africa". (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides,9/1/2019)
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