ZAMBIA: DRC Bishops Seek Zambia’s Intervention On Forthcoming Elections
The Congo Conference of Catholic Bishops has visited Zambia to seek audience with the Church and the State President Edgar Lungu, on the forthcoming December general elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of
Democratic Republic of Congo
Bishop Fridolin Ambongo
at State House.
President Lungu is the current Chairperson of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defense and Security. The DRC Catholic Bishops’ Vice President, Archbishop Fridolin Ambongo, says they decided to make the visit following Zambia’s brave intervention in convincing President Joseph Kabila and the DRC Government to call for elections.
Most Reverend Ambongo said Zambia has strong democratic tenets that have enabled the country to maintain peace even after an election. He told the media on Sunday, 9th September 2018 that the DRC looks up to Zambia as a role model for Peace, Security and Respect for the rule of law.
Archbishop Ambongo said it was not easy for the African Union to convince the DRC Government to call for elections, but with the help of the Zambia Episcopal Conference, it was possible and wished democratic reality in DRC.
Archbishop Ambongo further appealed to politicians in Zambia not to disturb the peace the country has enjoyed for many years.
of the Congo Conference of Catholic Bishops,
Bishop Fridolin Ambongo whilst Secretary General
Fr. Donatien Nshole looks on during meeting with
the President at State House
And speaking after a meeting with president Lungu, the Bishops noted that the political tension in the DRC is worrying, saying the situation has raised fear among the general citizenry in that country, including the Church.
“It is the desire of the Catholic Church in Congo to ensure that the country conducts free and fair elections, and that peace is restored,” Archbishop Ambongo revealed, adding that though the elections date has been set, the growing political tension in the DRC is sending mixed signals among its people.
President Edgar Lungu has assured the Bishops that he will use his position as Chairman of the SADC Troika on Politics, Peace and Security, to try and help restore peace in the DRC.
Presidential elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo are slated for December 23rd, 2018.
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