DRC authorities urged to respect human rights

Human Rights Watch has called on the authorities of the Democratic Republic of Congo to respect people’s rights to freedom of expression and assembly.

Democratic Republic of Congo at a Precipice https://t.co/sEOpnWNU8d

— Human Rights Watch (@hrw) September 18, 2016

The call comes after the government dispersed opposition party members who were meeting to plan protests in the country.

The organisation says decisions taken by Joseph Kabila in future will be essential in strengthening the country’s democracy and rule of law.

A human rights activist was arrested in Kinshasa on September 17, after participating in a civil society meeting and press conference on elections.

Joseph Kabila’s mandate comes to an end on December 20 this year, and the constitution does not give him room to seek another mandate.

President Kabila has not shown any signs which suggest he is willing to quit power.

The DRC is expected to organise the presidential election before the end of 2016.