DRC POLITICAL SITUATION IRKS ECL
President Edgar Lungu says the SADC Region is gravely concerned at the deteriorating political situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo -DRC.
And President Lungu has called upon the government to establish conditions for a free and fair election ahead of the December 23 polls.
Following a series of consultations with other Heads of State over the past two days, President Lungu, in his capacity as Chair of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, says SADC is gravely concerned at the prevailing political and security situation in the DRC.
And in a letter to DRC President Joseph Kabila, President Lungu said the blatant destruction of electoral materials at a warehouse in Kinshasa, which gravely hinders efforts made by the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI), is of grave concern.
He also expressed sadness over the death and injuries of nationals of the Democratic Republic of Congo due to some violence in Lubumbashi, Mbuji-Mayi and Kalemie.
President Lungu also called on all stakeholders to work together and exercise tolerance.
The President stated that for the DRC to hold peaceful, inclusive, transparent and successful elections, the government must ensure that all citizens are safe, all candidates are allowed free space to campaign, and that election materials are secure and accessible to all registered voters.
President Lungu said that elections are an essential requirement and important mechanism for peace, security and stability in DRC.
He said that Zambia, therefore, calls on the various stakeholders to amicably resolve the prevailing political challenges and ensure that peace and stability is immediately restored.
President Lungu also spent most of his day speaking to the presidents of Nambia, Angola, South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Botswana to push for efforts aimed at promoting a credible electoral process ahead of the DRC crucial poll.
This is according to a statement released to ZNBC News by Special Assistant to the President for Press and Public Relations Amos Chanda.