DRC: Opposition suspends participation in dialogue

The opposition in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has suspended its participation in the country’s ongoing political dialogue.

Vital Kamerhe, co-facilitator of the national dialogue on the opposition ticket told the press that the dialogue was already taking an undesired path.

A suggestion that the presidential election should be organised after local elections, has been rejected by the opposition but the ruling party considers the protest as a negotiation technique.

The dialogue is holding under the mediation efforts of AU special envoy Edem Kodjo, who has the mission to help the country get out of its political crisis.

Joseph Kabila took over power in 2001 and is not authorised to stand for re-election when his mandate expires in December according to the country’s constitution.

Kabila has however not given any indication that he is ready to step down.

Earlier last week, the catholic church threatened to withdraw from the dialogue if the political forum is used to give Joseph Kabila an opportunity to stand for re-election.