RELEASE: Rep. Ro Khanna Calls for Democratic Republic of Congo President Joseph Kabila to accept upcoming elections and step aside in accordance with the outcome

Washington, DC – It is time for Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) President Joseph Kabila to respect his country's constitution and accept the upcoming elections on December 23rd. Since his second and final term ended in 2016, he has held on to power and delayed elections.

Yesterday, the United Nations (UN) Security Council unanimously passed a resolution that renews and strengthens its peacekeeping mission in the DRC until after the elections are held. I am encouraged by this resolution that aims to foster a political transition and resolve the armed conflict. These peacekeepers must be allowed to protect civilians during the voting and remain neutral to ensure a free and fair election is held. The people of the DRC deserve to have their voices heard and vote without fear of violence.

Recent ethnic violence in the Ituri and Kasai provinces are concerning and underline the importance of the planned elections. Continued political uncertainty and repression could lead to more conflict, instability and suffering. For too long, the citizens of the DRC have suffered because of this political stalemate. More than 13 million need humanitarian assistance, over seven million are food insecure, four million are displaced and two million children face starvation. Last year, the UN categorized the crises as a "level 3 emergency", its highest. This humanitarian crisis must be addressed and given the attention it deserves.

I call on President Donald J. Trump to join this call for President Kabila to accept the elections and step down once a new leader is chosen.

About the Office

Congressman Khanna represents the 17th District of California, which covers communities in Silicon Valley. Visit his website at khanna.house.gov. Follow him on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @RepRoKhanna.

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