DR Congo: AU mediator receives support as deadlock persists

African ambassadors accredited to the Democratic Republic of Congo have called on African Union mediator Edem Kodjo to remain focused as negotiations to break the deadlock in the electoral process continue.

There has not been any progress yet in the DR Congo’s mediation efforts with several delays recorded in the process that is aimed at calming tension ahead of the upcoming elections.

Some political actors have accused Kodjo of being partial in the negotiation process.

But diplomats argue that the negotiations should take place in an atmosphere of peace and stability to ensure that stability reigns in the DR Congo and the entire sub region.

The special envoy of the United States to the Great Lakes, Thomas Perriello, met with opposition leader, Ettienne Tshisekedi who presented the conditions necessary for him to participate in the mediation.

Tshisekedi said the mediation can only be facilitated if political prisoners are freed while charges against Moise Katumbi are dropped.