Brussels, 18/07/2006 (Agence Europe) - In the face of the difficulties being met by the electoral process in the Democratic Republic of Congo (see EUROPE 9232), EU foreign ministers have pointed out that “the first democratic elections in 40 years provide a chance for a better future in the DRC”. The conclusions adopted on 17 July by the General Affairs/External Relations Council reiterate the EU's unreserved support for these presidential and legislative elections (first round of voting on 30 July, second round on 15 October: Ed.), stress the importance of keeping to the agreed timetable and call on the transition authorities and all political forces in DRC to fully comply with democratic principles and basic freedoms during the electoral campaign. “In this regard the EU urges all stakeholders to refrain from any harassment, intimidation or any other form of undue pressure as well as from all attempts of disturbing the electoral process by causing civil unrest.” The Council firmly condemns all acts which violate basic civil rights, including the harassment of the media, and that undermine the fair and transparent electoral process, say the conclusions. The Council expects Congolese security forces to “exercise restraint and remain impartial while providing security to the electoral process”.
Stressing the potential of these elections to help the stabilisation of the region of the Great African Lakes if they are conducted in credible and peaceful fashion, the Council encourages all players in the region to play a constructive role and emphasises that the successful holding of the second Summit of the Great Lakes (provisionally scheduled for December in Nairobi) would also help underpin security in the DRC and throughout the region.
In addition, the Council welcomes the progress in deploying the EUFOR RD Congo operation in support of the MONUC peace keeping mission and notes that the EUFOR RD Congo will very shortly be fully operational for a period of up to four months from 30 July. Stressing that EU support for the reform of the security sector is continuing, the Council notes that the temporary strengthening of the police advisory mission EUPOL Kinshasa is well under way, and particularly welcomes the involvement of partner African nations in this mission. It stresses the importance of maintaining good and close cooperation with the United Nations and the transition authorities in the DRC, and welcomes the support of the Republic of Gabon and the Republic of Congo. The DRC may be assured of the continued support of the EU, “fully committed and looking forward to pursuing its efforts in partnership and cooperation once a new democratic government is in place”.