MONUSCO concerned over rising tension in parts of DR Congo

Head of the UN Mission for Stabilization of Congo (MONUSCO) Maman Sidikou on Sunday expressed concern over rising political tension in parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo).

In a statement issued in Kinshasa, Sidikou said tension was rising due to a plan by some political parties to organize protest marches in Kinshasa and Lubumbashi and the measures announced by the security forces to prevent the protests.

"The Special Representative of the UN Secretary General wish to highlight the need for all Congolese actors to demonstrate restraint, especially during this highly charged political period in their country," the statement added.

Sidikou urged the Congolese authorities to act in respect of the rule of law, and to refrain from any measures that will prevent political actors from enjoying their rights that are guaranteed by the Constitution, especially the freedom of expression and assembly as well as the right to hold peaceful protests.

He highlighted the crucial need for preserving adequate political space to encourage the holding of an inclusive political dialogue that will enable the country to hold peaceful, transparent and credible elections.

In this regard, he reiterated the willingness of MONUSCO to help the facilitator appointed by the African Union, Edem Kodjo, achieve his goal of assisting Congolese political actors to hold dialogue. Endit