Edem Kodjo vows not to betray the DRC

The African Union mediator in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Edem Kodjo has started preparations for a national dialogue following the involvement of political actors and civil-society groups in ongoing talks ahead of elections expected in November.

“We are not here to betray Congo or our dear mother Africa. We are here to build the future, build life together while respecting faith, justice, solidarity and love for the country,” Edem Kodjo said.

The inclusive dialogue was convened last November by President Joseph Kabila as part of efforts to get the country ready for elections.

Uncertainty, however, looms over the possibility of the elections taking place with the opposition calling for a general strike to force Kabila to end his 15-year rule which comes to an end in December.

Edem Kodjo has charged all stakeholders to ensure the talks are successful to avoid any political crisis.

Most political parties in the DRC suspect the dialogue is a ploy to allow Kabila stay in power either by delaying the elections or installing a power sharing government.

But UN officials in Congo say the dialogue remains the only way out of the current political disagreement.

The UN mission is still calling on all political actors to join the process.

The successful holding of presidential elections will mark the DRC’s first peaceful transition of power since the country gained independence from Belgium in 1960.