The United States of America has placed a visa ban on some key Congolese officials.
These officials are accused of engaging in corrupt acts and electoral malpractices.
The US State Department has not mentioned the names of these officials though.
Likely impact of ban
The US State Department says the latest visa restrictions will send a strong signal about Washington distaste for corruption.
The ban will also demonstrate the US government’s commitment towards credible elections.
Electoral challenges
The Democratic Republic of Congo has delayed its presidential election after President Joseph Kabila refused to stepdown.
He agreed to back a presidential election in December to choose his successor after series of negotiations.
Is Kabila not running?
There are concerns Kabila will attempt running again but the country’s Prime minister says he won’t contest.
Bruno Tshibala says President Kabila is not eligible constitutionally to seek a third term and that he will respect the constitution.
“The elections are going to take place without the participation of President Kabila who will abide by the spirit and the letter of the constitution,” Tshibala is quoted as saying.
But there are signals Congo’s parliament, wants to consider a legal protection for former presidents. That will surely cover Kabila.
Joseph Kabila has been President of the Democratic Republic of Congo since 2001 after succeeding his father Laurent.
His father was assassinated and young Joseph had to take over as President.
Source: Africafeeds.com
