As elections near, Congo says it will ease military rule in the conflict-riddled east
As elections near, Congo says it will ease military rule in the conflict-riddled east
Congo’s president says he will gradually ease the state of military rule in the conflict-riddled east and lift some restrictions imposed more than two years ago.
GOMA, Congo (AP) — Congo’s president said he will gradually ease the state of military rule in the conflict-riddled east and lift some restrictions imposed more than two years ago.
Speaking to the nation Thursday, President Felix Tshisekedi said there would be a gradual easing of the state of siege in North Kivu and Ituri provinces, which includes ending a curfew, allowing peaceful demonstrations and for people to live normal lives.
The announcement comes more than two months ahead of presidential elections, when Tshisekedi hopes to secure a second term.
He implemented the state of siege in 2021, allowing military and police to take control from civilian institutions, in an attempt to stem rising violence.