Congo opposition rejects new timetable for polls to replace Kabila

Felix Tshisekedi, leader of Congolese main opposition the Union for Democracy and Social Progress (UDPS) party, addresses a news conference in Limete Municipality of Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo. (Photo: Reuters)

Democratic Republic of Congo’s main opposition parties have rejected a new date for elections announced at the weekend to replace President Joseph Kabila, saying it violates the law and a political deal agreed with the government.

Originally scheduled for late 2016, the polls have been repeatedly delayed. Following several rounds of deadly protests, Kabila’s camp and his opponents signed an accord last December agreeing to hold the election before the end of this year.