UK welcomes new electoral law and cessation of violence in DRC

27 Jan 2015 01:49 PM

UK welcomes adoption of new electoral law and cessation of violent protests in DRC and supports the elections process.

An FCO Spokesperson said:

The UK welcomes the new electoral law passed by the Parliament of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on 25 January. This law is an important step towards elections which are credible, inclusive and peaceful, and which respect the will of the Congolese people, the country’s constitution and the African Union Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance. We hope it will contribute to greater representation of women in political life, and urge the publication of a comprehensive electoral calendar and budget without delay.

Elections are an integral part of efforts to build a secure and prosperous DRC: an ambition shared by all. We look forward to engaging further with the Independent National Electoral Commission and Government on how the international community can support the right conditions for successful elections.

The right to peaceful demonstration must always be upheld. We offer our condolences to the families of all those reported to have died in the unrest of recent days, call on the authorities to investigate the violence and urge all parties to ensure calm.

The UK remains fully committed to working with all those striving to build stability and democracy in the DRC, including the government, UN, opposition and civil society groups.

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