DRC Prime Minister, Matata Ponyo Resigns

Democratic Republic of Congo, Prime Minister Augustin Matata Ponyo has resigned on Monday. This is part of ongoing talks to avert political crisis.

Matata Ponyo announced his resignation after a meeting with the President Joseph Kabila. He referred to a deal he struck after a political dialogue boycotted by the main opposition parties.

“I have offered my resignation as well as those of the members of my government. To respond to the spirit and the letter of the accord”

An opposition is expected to take over the position.

DRC’s Political Crisis

The crisis in the country intensified last month after the presidential election was postponed till April 2018. Opposition parties have accused incumbent president, Joseph Kabila of manipulating the electoral system to stay in power. The president who has been in power since 2001 is expected to end his second term on December 20.

 

The decision to delay the vote was taken in October by the government and fringe opposition groups following a “national dialogue”. The dialogue is aimed at calming soaring political tensions. However, main opposition parties boycotted and described it as a sham.

Meanwhile, President Kabila is expected to address the nation Tuesday when he speaks to parliament.

A UN Security Council delegation in the country has called for a peaceful transition of power following the government’s decision to delay elections.