17 12 11 – Statement from chairman, ranking member of Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on African Affairs

WASHINGTON – A day after holding a hearing of the Senate Foreign
Relations Subcommittee on African Affairs on governance in the
Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Senators Coons (D-Del.) and Isakson
(R-Ga.) expressed deep concern about today’s ruling of the Congolese
Supreme Court, which declared President Kabila the winner of recent
elections without a transparent review of the election results.

“We are deeply troubled by today’s ruling by the Congolese Supreme
Court, which confirmed the results of the Congolese election commission
despite widespread reports of irregularities. This was clearly not a
well-run election, as reported by observers from the European Union,
Carter Center, and Congolese Catholic Church.  Congolese authorities
must engage in a thorough and transparent review of the results that
will shed light on whether irregularities were caused by a lack of
organization or fraud, and the United States stands ready to provide
technical assistance for such a review. 

"We are increasingly concerned that the election irregularities are a
setback for already weak systems of governance in Congo, and may
further destabilize the DRC and lead to an escalation of violence.  All
sides should engage in dialogue about next steps and consider
establishing a formal mediation process with the support of the
international community.  Wecall on President Kabila to direct his
security forces to protect the Congolese people, and work with Mr.
Tshisekedi to resolve their disagreements in a way that will restore
credibility to the process.  The U.S. stands with the Congolese people
in their attempt to advance democracy and hope it can be achieved
peacefully.”