If You Want Peace In DRC, Resign: Top French Minister Tells Kabila

The President of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Joseph Kabila, must abide by the constitution and step down at the end of his current term, France’s Foreign Minister Jean-Mark Ayrault said in an interview with francophone current affairs channel, TV5.

Mr Ayrault was renewing a call he issued last week when addressing students in Paris. This time, he addressed criticism that France is meddling in Congolese internal affairs, arguing his country is not alone in reminding Kabila to play by the rules.

“President Kabila must set the example. He must abide by the constitution. If sanctions are needed, we will resort to sanctions,” Ayrault said.

He added, “I call people to be reasonable; people in power in the Democratic Republic of Congo must assume their responsibilities. If they want peace in their country, if they are concerned about the welfare of their people, they must abide by the constitution.”

**French Foreign Minister Jean-Mark Ayrault**

Last week, Ayrault said the Democratic Republic of Congo is on the brink of a civil war because a sitting president barred from remaining as head of state is not willing to step down.

“The Democratic Republic of Congo is a very great country, with immense economic and human potential, but on the brink of civil war,” he said.

The constitution bars Kabila, who has been in power since 2001, to run for office again. The opposition suspects that he wants to delay the poll to remain in office.

BBC