DRC: Two opposition leaders pull out of election coalition /update 1

Event

The leaders of the political opposition parties UPDS (Union for Democracy and Social Progress) and UNC (Union for the Congolese Nation) have pulled out of a coalition that had nominated a unique candidate for the December 23 presidential elections. They will therefore run their own candidates. The move came following protests by supporters of both parties that took place November 12 in the capital Kinshasa to denounce the nomination of Martin Fayulu of the Engagement for Citizenship and Development (ECIDE) party as the opposition coalition candidate. Protests by supporters of other opposition parties to denounce the withdrawal of the UDPS and UNC from the agreement are possible.

Context

Fayulu was nominated on November 11 following negotiations among the leaders of the seven opposition parties. The campaign period for the elections will officially begin on November 22.

Advice

Individuals in the DRC are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and obey all instructions issued by the local authorities.