DR Congo: UN chief notes launch of national dialogue towards elections, urges more inclusive process

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has taken note of yesterday's launch of the national dialogue in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and urged more inclusive process towards elections, his spokesman said today.

“He remains convinced that only an inclusive political dialogue will help pave the way towards peaceful and credible elections, in accordance with Security Council Resolution 2277 (2016),” Mr. Ban's spokesman added in a statement.

The Secretary-General urged the political groups that have not yet joined the dialogue process to “play a constructive role which contributes to the holding of timely and credible elections,” the spokesman said.

Furthermore, the Secretary-General encouraged the Government to continue confidence-building measures and to uphold the fundamental rights and freedoms enshrined in the Constitution, the spokesman said.

Mr. Ban also urged all actors to refrain from any action that could increase tensions or lead to violence, the spokesman added.