The Bishops of Bukavu speak out on peace and DRC elections

The Bishops of the Ecclesiastical Province of Bukavu (comprising the Dioceses of Butembo-Beni, Goma, Kasongo, Kindu and Uvira) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo have urged President Joseph Kabila to come clean and resolve the political impasse in the electoral process of the country.

Meeting in a regular session last week in Kindu, the prelates expressed their determination to do all that is necessary to promote peace and return to normalcy in their troubled region. South Kivu, in particular, is home to various armed militia groups that have caused severe suffering and made life impossible for citizens. 

The Bishops have pledged to continue preaching and promoting a unifying message of peace and tolerance in this part of the country shaken not only by insecurity but ethnic conflicts as well. They appeal to political leaders in the DRC to prioritise the interests of citizens and help cultivate a sense of patriotism in the country.

Last November, the Bishops of Bukavu appealed to Congolese political parties to renounce "a culture of lies," and inform people about the real issues of the national dialogue and forthcoming elections.

Political tensions are high in Congo on the question of President Kabila's succession.

Democratic Republic of Congo's highest court ruled early last month that President Joseph Kabila could stay in power beyond the end of his two-term mandate if his government failed to hold an election due in November.

Kabila's opponents immediately denounced the court ruling. They have previously argued that an interim president should serve after Kabila's term expired and elections delayed. The government has said elections may be delayed due to budgetary and logistical obstacles.

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Source: Radio Vatican, French Service; additional info Reuters.