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    October 27, 2011

Official Campaigning Begins Ahead of Congo's Election

   Peter Clottey
   Supporters of Democratic Republic of Congo's Union for Democracy and
   Social Progress (UDPS) and allied parties rally demanding more
   transparency in the November 28 election preparation process, Kinshasa,
   October 13, 2011.
   Photo: AFP
   Supporters of Democratic Republic of Congo's Union for Democracy and
   Social Progress (UDPS) and allied parties rally demanding more
   transparency in the November 28 election preparation process, Kinshasa,
   October 13, 2011.

   In the Democratic Republic of Congo, official campaigning begins today
   (Friday), ahead of the November 28 general elections. Ten aspirants
   will be challenging incumbent Joseph Kabila for the presidency.

   Information minister Lambert Mende says the government is reinforcing
   security for prospective voters by deploying five newly trained police
   regiments.

   'Political parties are preparing very eager to start their campaign.
   Some of them have even started their campaign, despite warning from the
   electoral commission,' said Mende. 'We are awaiting a peaceful campaign
   as everybody has declared their commitment to give to our people the
   opportunity of choosing their leaders peacefully.'

   Some citizens have expressed concern about attacks from rebel groups
   during the campaign.

   Observers also warn of the increasing potential for violence between
   supporters of political rivals in the next few weeks.

   But Mende said that the government is working closely with the United
   Nations Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo
   (MONUSCO) and the African Union to ensure a peaceful electoral process.

   'We have recruited new elements within the police [and] we have trained
   them and we are enjoying the cooperation from our partners in the U.N.
   [and] they are helping a lot by training our personnel,' said Mende.
   'We are ready.'

   Congo has signed a memorandum of understanding with MONUSCO for it to
   provide civilian protection as well as support the electoral commission
   in organizing the vote.

   In its pre-election report, U.S.-based Carter Center called on the
   electoral commission to take urgent steps in order to ensure the
   November vote is credible.

   Some opposition parties echoed similar sentiments while cautioning the
   election could be rigged.

   The Information Minister expressed confidence the election will be held
   as scheduled, despite concerns it could be delayed.