Several countries, including the United States, France, Germany and Belgium, issued a joint statement on Friday June 2 to express their concern about the obstacles that hinder the holding of free and fair elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This statement was made as several acts of repression were recorded against demonstrations organized by the opposition to protest against an electoral process deemed chaotic.
The DRC partners underlined the importance of freedom of expression, press, assembly and movement for the democratic process, and reiterated their support for the rule of law.
This joint statement comes as several investigations have been announced to shed light on the excessive use of force during the protests.
Despite these acts of hindrance, the opposition remains mobilized to obtain the organization of free and fair elections in accordance with the constitution, with a march organized on May 20 and a meeting scheduled for June 17.
News in the DRC is thus at a crossroads, between mobilization of civil society, call for the release of political prisoners and preparation for elections in a context of repression of dissident voices and resistance to the current electoral process.