UK urges DR Congo gov't to organize presidential polls on time

The UK government on Wednesday urged Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) government to ensure the forthcoming presidential elections are held within constitutional timeline.

The appeal was made by the British Minister for Middle East and Africa Tobias Ellwood at the end of his two-day visit to the country.

"The UK is ready to support the electoral process, but the first responsibility for organizing elections rests with the Congolese government. Timely elections, peaceful hand-over of power and democratic institutions will offer certainty and opportunities not only to the Congolese people, but also to international business people," Ellwood said.

The world is ready to invest in DR Congo, its people and in its economy, the British minister said, adding that it is upon the government to create an ideal environment for this to happen.

The British minister who has been in the country between Aug. 8 to 10, was making his first visit to DR Congo. He used the opportunity to reiterate Britain's commitment to support DR Congo and the Congolese people.

During a series of meetings that included meeting Prime Minister Matata Ponyo and Justice Minister Alexis Thambwe Mwamba, Ellwood urged the Congolese government to make more efforts towards holding elections on time.

The minister equally met with opposition leaders and highlighted the importance of elections to DR Congo's continued development. Endit