US WARNS DRC AGAIN: Electoral Fraud Will Attract Sanctions, US Reiterate Its Stance

US WARNS DRC AGAIN: Electoral Fraud Will Attract Sanctions, US Reiterate Its Stance

The United States has warned it will impose strict sanctions including visa restrictions on perpetrators of electoral malpractice and fraud in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s upcoming 2023 General Elections.

The DRC goes to the polls on Wednesday, December 20, 2023 to elect its new president and leaders with the electoral process entering its final stage.

In a statement issued on Friday, the US through the embassy in Kinshasa, reiterated its full support to the DRC as it enters the crucial election stage.

The US adds that in its bid to play a role in ensuring a democratic and fair election, it will not hesitate to land hefty sanctions on individuals found to be guilty of electoral fraud.

The full statement by the US reads:

As the DRC enters the final phase of its fourth electoral cycle, the United States of America congratulates the Congolese people for their active participation in the electoral process. Last month, we saw the people of this country fill stadiums and town squares to connect with candidates and make their voices heard. The United States reaffirms its support for the Congolese people as they exercise their democratic right to choose their representatives.

We rely on the government of the DRC to ensure that all Congolese can participate in elections safely and meaningfully, regardless of their political allegiances and without fear of violence and reprisals. We invite all candidates and all parties to promote peaceful and credible elections by avoiding statements likely to provoke escalation and violence, by promising to resolve disputes in accordance with the law and above all by respecting the will of the Congolese people. At this turning point in Congo’s history, it is up to Congolese institutions to fulfill their constitutional mandates with the independence and integrity that the Congolese people expect.

The United States reaffirms its commitment to using all available instruments, including visa restrictions, to promote accountability for anyone who obstructs elections or undermines the democratic process.

The world’s attention will be on the DRC in the coming days as it reaches another milestone in its history. We wish the Congolese every success as they seize the opportunity to vote and determine the future direction of their country.