Canada takes note of publication of electoral calendar in Democratic Republic of Congo and calls for respect for democratic freedoms
Statements
November 8, 2017 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada
Global Affairs Canada today issued the following statement on the publication of the electoral calendar in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC):
“Canada notes the publication of the DRC’s electoral calendar, announcing a general election for December, 2018.
“Canada encourages the DRC on its path toward free, fair, transparent and inclusive elections, which will allow for the peaceful and democratic transition of power expected by the Congolese people, and in keeping with the spirit of the DRC’s Constitution and the Saint-Sylvestre Accord, which does not allow President Joseph Kabila to stand for re-election for a third term. We also emphasize the crucial importance of devoting all necessary efforts to the organization of elections and to ensuring full respect for human rights at all stages of the electoral process.
“Canada calls on all political actors in the DRC to work together for the success of this process. Canada also calls on the authorities to ensure that human rights are fully respected, particularly those related to freedom of expression, the press, peaceful assembly and association, including the release of political prisoners and the need to put an end to politically motivated prosecution.
“Canada also encourages the Government of the DRC to take all possible measures to ensure the full participation of women in Congolese politics.
“As a member of the United Nations Human Rights Council, the country's authorities must demonstrate the importance they place on human rights and the opening of the democratic space.”
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