FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

After years of delays, the independent elections commission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) published a timeline for the country’s long overdue elections. The United States will work with the international community to help the DRC meet this timeline, and we stand ready to ensure President Kabila abides by his commitments in line with the constitution and the December 31 Agreement.

“As we heard directly from the Congolese people, the citizens of the DRC are hungry for democracy and new leadership. Further delays and attempts to hold onto power will only serve to isolate the DRC’s leaders and government. The release of an electoral calendar – while long overdue – sets a clear timeline for a transition of power. We will work closely with the DRC, the UN, and our partners to ensure President Kabila and his government stick to this timeline, encourage full peaceful participation and freedom of speech, and do not permit any further delay in giving their people their rightful opportunity to decide on their country’s future,” said Ambassador Haley.