DR Congo's Prime minister calls for peace

The newly appointed Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of Congo Samy Badibanga has called on the opposition supporters to maintain law and order to ensure a peaceful coexistence in the country.

Badibanga took the office from the outgoing prime minister Matata Ponyo on 19 December, a day that marked the end of Kabila’s tenure as president according to the DRC constitution.

“At this time when I am about to take my roles as one of the leading heads in this country, I would like to appeal for peace to prevail in the whole republic. The government will ensure that there is law and order and that security is strictly maintained. We will ensure that the public order is strictly respected as well as respect to rights and everyone’s freedom,” the Prime Minister told reporters.

Security forces shot dead at least 26 protesters who had gathered in the streets of Kinshasa and other cities of Democratic Republic of Congo on Tuesday to demand that President Joseph Kabila step down after his mandate expired overnight.

Human Rights Watch researcher Ida Sawyer said on Twitter that at least two dozen people were killed by security forces.

DRC authorities have in the meantime blocked most social media in the country.