DRC: 75 Nobel Laureates call for urgent international action to end an ignored human tragedy
In an op-ed published by the French newspaper Le Monde, 75 Nobel laureates, including Dr. Denis Mukwege, urge the international …
DRC: Congolese journalists’ guild opposes regulatory commission’s decisions
The Union Nationale de la Presse du Congo (UNPC) reacted on Thursday to the decision by the Conseil Supérieur de …
Kinshasa: Urban and armed banditry on the rise
As of mid-2025, robbery and swindling remain significant concerns in Kinshasa, driven by a combination of socio-economic challenges, gang calls …
DRC The National Assembly lifts the immunities of Constant Mutamba, Minister of Justice
The National Assembly has taken a decisive step in a case that is shaking the top of the Congolese judiciary. …
Rwanda-backed M23 rebels take several villages in Walikale territory
In the midst of a ceasefire, the M23-AFC rebels continue to conquer new entities, notably in the Walikale territory in …
Joseph Kabila addresses the Congolese nation
In an eagerly-awaited address, Joseph Kabila delivered a harsh diagnosis of the current situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo, …
DRC: Constitutional Court sentences Matata Ponyo
Former Prime Minister Augustin Matata Ponyo was sentenced on Tuesday to 10 years’ hard labor, 5 years’ ineligibility and immediate …
Urgent: Joseph Kabila invited to appear before a Senate commission in Kinshasa
Senate President Lukonde Sama has sent an invitation to former president Joseph Kabila for a “working session with the special …
DRC: A senior officer disappears with money intended for the military near Uvira
The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) are once again shaken by a case of embezzlement. The …
DRC Multi-million-dollar blur surrounding the Kisangani prison project
Several members of the government are implicated in a project to build a new prison in Kisangani. If this involves …
Goma-Nyiragongo: Over 1,200 youth, elderly, and some minors taken by M23-Rwanda to Rumangabo for forced military training in just 3 days.
The main reasons for the mass arrests are primarily: BODY TATTOOS, HAVING AN “UGLY” FACE, LOSS OF ID CARDS, and …
Much Ado about Congo
By now, the whole world has borne witness to the deplorable situation that has unravelled in the eastern region of …
DRC FARDC soldiers stationed at MONUSCO leave Goma for Kinshasa thanks to the ICRC
An operation was launched by the ICRC on Wednesday April 30, 2025 to ensure the departure of the first convoys …
Dowa: A first consensus between the Congolese government and the AFC/M23
The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the AFC/M23 rebels have announced, in a joint declaration, their …
Washington brings Kinshasa and Kigali together for a declaration of principles on peace
On Friday April 25, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda signed a “declaration of principles” for an agreement …
SADC troops to withdraw via Rwanda
Troops from the military mission of the Economic Community of Southern African States have been ordered to withdraw from the …
Climate Change in Congo
The impacts of Cobalt mining in the Congo Congo is the home of 70 percent of the world reserve for …
Women Activists in the Congo
Women activists in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) play a crucial role in shaping human rights in the Congo. …
War in the DRC Kavumu still sees clashes between M23 and Wazalendo this Sunday
Columns of Wazalendo fighters have been deployed since the early hours of Saturday morning in the localities of Kavumu and …
DRC Kinshasa terminates contracts with lobbyists supposed to plead the Congolese cause
In a press release published on Monday April 7, the spokeswoman for the President of the Republic, Tina Salama, announced …
DRC: Floods claim lives in Kinshasa
Flooding has hit several southern and western parts of Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo. According to …
DRC-USA Massad Boulos holds talks with Félix Tshisekedi
US President Donald Trump’s Senior Advisor for Africa, Massad Boulos, was received by President Félix Tshisekedi in Kinshasa on Thursday …
DRC Civil Servants Not Yet In Beni On Technical Leave
All civil servants who have not returned to Beni are on technical leave. This is the decision of Major General …
DRC: President Tshisekedi meets with President Kagame in Doha, Qatar
Despite his promise to meet Paul Kagame only in paradise, President Tshisekedi was found in front of Rwandan President under …
DRC: New FARDC Units Sent in the Tanganyika Province
The Tanganyika Province has been strengthened by new FARDC units with a new holding, including other military utensils. These uniform …
DRC: Minister in Charge of Transport Invite Students to Join the Army
Yesterday, The Minister in charge of Transport JEAN PIERRE MBEMBA went to the National Pedagogical University (UPN) based in Kinshasa …
DRC: M23 take the Island of Idjwi Without Resistance
Without surprise, the M23 took this morning the island of Idjwi. Idjwi is the largest island in the Democratic Republic …
DRC: Mining Company Alphamine Suspend Operations amidst M23 Advances
Faced with the advance of the M23 and its allies as far as Walikale territory, the board of directors of …
Congo’s Traditions: Culture, Community, and Heritage
When people hear about Congo, they think about exploitation and political instability, but Congo is far more than its struggles. …
DRC: Summoning of prominent allies of former DRC President by Military Prosecutor
Today, March 10, 2025, Aubin Minaku and Emmanuel Ramazani Shadary, prominent allies of former Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) President …
US Law and Policies on the Congo
Laws and Policies on the Congo: A Timeline Throughout the years, laws have been proposed to help reduce the damages …
Leadership Change During Escalating Conflict in Eastern Congo
Introduction: The crisis that is rooted in tragedy From 1996 to the present times, the conflict that occurred in eastern …
Fine Mineral exploitation
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is a country blessed with abundant natural resources, including precious minerals like cobalt, diamonds, …
Congo Independence
In our current world, we often place freedom and independence on a very high pedestal. Many of us assume that …
Malcolm X and the Congo
The American history curriculum taught in public schools and portrayed by mainstream media effectively downplays certain figures’ impact on history. …
DRC: A dozen people killed in a bombing in Mweso
A bomb was dropped in the town of Mweso, about 140km north-west of the city of Goma, in the province …
We Are Responsible for the Well-being of the Planet
In Italy to promote crowdfunding for the filming of Basandja , the Congolese director spoke to La Svolta about exploitation, …
Six-Day War: 23rd Anniversary Report
Six-Day War: 23rd Anniversary ReportBy Aïssata Diallo This report refers to a sad date for the whole of the Democratic Republic …
Climate Crisis and the Congo Basin
Climate Crisis and the Congo Basin By Kwaku Aurelien Made up of eighteen percent of the world’s tropical forests, 10,000 …
Post-Colonial Artwork in the Congo: The Lubumbashi Movement
The Kingdom of Kongo rose in the 13th century. For centuries following its inception, Kongo wrote itself into history as …
A Solem Dedication to Dr. Shomari Harper
Dr. Shomari Harper (January 5, 1959 – September 17, 2022 On Monday, January 5th, 1959 at 8:48 at New York …
Regret for Belgium but No restitution for the Congolese?
The ruthless colonial history of Belgium in the Congo is one of brutality, enslavement, and egregious violations of the human …
Booker T. Washington’s Tuskegee Continues The Legacy of the Congo Connection
Booker T Washington’s Tuskegee Continues The Legacy of the Congo Connection Booker T. Washington in his 1904 essay “Cruelty in …
Rwanda’s & Uganda’s Six-Day War In Congo: A quarter Century War of Agression Against the Congolese people
This week marks the 22nd anniversary of Rwanda’s and Uganda’s Six-Day War in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). …
Nita Evele: Dedication To A model for African Women
Friends of the Congo is saddened and shocked by the sudden passing of our dear sister Nita Evele. We extend …
The Deal: Kabila and Tshisekedi, A Coalition in Peril
The deal between former President Joseph Kabila and his coalition, Front commun pour le Congo (FCC) and current President Felix …
Dr. Denis Mukwege, Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Appeals for Justice During Congo Week Awards Ceremony
FOTC Atlanta is honored to have the opportunity to recognize Dr. Denis Mukwege for his incredible contribution to Congo, Africa …
The Congo Basin and its Significance in The Fight Against Climate Change
Jean-Paul Kibambe, Ingrid Schulze, and Samuel Yagase discussed the impact and importance of the Congo Basin to the rest of …
Connecting Our African + African-American Brothers & Sisters
The painful destruction of African families and tribes due to colonization is one that had irreparable effects on the Black …
AFRICOM: Deadly Deception
On October 1, 2007, the United States under the presidency of George W. Bush and the military leadership of the …
Pan-African Response to COVID-19: A Review
Pan-African Response to COVID-19: A Reviewby Achint Das, Intern, FOTC Friends of the Congo-Atlanta organized a forum on the Pan-African Response …
Solidarity With African Americans
We, members of the popular mass movement, TELEMA, striving not only for the unity of Africa but also for its …
Free Education in the DRC
Free Education in the DRC By Francesca Dishueme The administration of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the country …
Combating COVID19 From New York to the Congo: An Interview with Bibi Ndala
Bibi Ndala speaks at The People’s Forum in New York City What do you do on a day to day basis in …
Bitter Sweet Historic Event in Democratic Republic of Congo
Today, Thursday, January 24, 2019, an historic event occurred in our beloved homeland: the transfer of power between Joseph Kabila …
Statements on Congo’s Elections
SADC congratulates President-Elect of DRCongo, Mr Felix TshisekediClick here to read! The African Union Commission takes note of the decision …
The Fight To End Tyrannical Regimes in Congo Persists
January 4th is a seminal day in Congo’s history, which serves as a national holiday. On January 4, 1959, ordinary …
DRC elections : The Catholic Church has the regime of Kinshasa over a barrel
The Congolese people, who are growing suspicious of the maneuvers of the Independent National Electoral Commission CENI in acronym, were …
Congo’s Security Forces Kill Two University Students
Within a span of four days, the Kabila regime’s security forces killed two students and injured many others at the …
Congratulations to Dr. Mukwege for Winning the Nobel Peace Prize
Congratulations to Dr. Mukwege for Winning the Nobel Peace Prize! Friends of the Congo congratulates Dr. Denis Mukwege on being …
Morocco Solidarity Statement: An Appeal for Release of Social Justice Detainees
Friends of the Congo supports the social justice pursuits of the people of the Rif region of Morocco and elsewhere …
Manifeste d’Atlanta
Synopsis Réunis en conclave à Atlanta, USA, un groupe d’intellectuels congolais s’est penché sur la crise que traverse la République …
Assassination Of A Congolese Patriot: Yet The Resistance Grows
The Lay Coordinating Committee issued a call for a third march on Sunday, February 25th. The march was organized in …
Third Call for March on Sunday, February 25th
The Lay Coordinating Committee called for its third non-violent march on Sunday, February 25th. According to the Committee, the two …
University of Kinshasa Students Under Seige By Kabila’s Security Forces
The University of Kinshasa has been experiencing a very intense tensions today. This morning, the students arrived at the university …
Faith Leaders and Civilians Face Severe Onslaught From Kabila’s Security Forces
Testimony: Jean-Marie Kalonji in below photo Location: Notre Dame Commune: Lingwala. Kinshasa Riot police officers fired tear gas during a protest …
The political commitment of Congolese Christians, in action, for the DRC
Dear fellow Congolese, “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.” – said Martin …
L’engagement politique de Chrétiens Congolais, en action, pour la RDC
Chers Compatriotes Congolais, “Nos vies commencent à se terminer le jour où nous devenons silencieux à propos des choses qui …
CONSIGNES DE LA MARCHE DE DIMANCHE
VOICI CE QUI A ÉTÉ DÉCIDÉ APRÈS CONCERTATION ENTRE LE CLC ET LES CURÉS Marche du 31 décembre 2017 Il …
US Sanctions Israeli Billionaire Dan Gertler Over Dealings In Congo
The U.S. Department of The Treasury sanctioned Israeli businessman, Dan Gertler for his corrupt business dealings in the Democratic Republic …
LA POLITISATION DES UNIVERSITES ET INSTITUTS SUPERIEURS SUR L’ETENDU DE LA REPUBLIQUE DEMOCRATIQUE DU CONGO
Avant on nous faisait croire que l’université était apolitique mais laissez-moi vous dire que je vis le contraire depuis mon …
STOP MUSEVENI CAMPAIGN
What: Press Conference When: September 19, 2017 Time: 12:30 PM Sharp Where: Dag Hammarskjold Park. East 47 Street between 1st …
Western Media Coverage of Paul Kagame and the Rwandan Elections
Paul Kagame of Rwanda has long been the darling of the Western media. He has aptly been called the West’s …
Jean-Marie and Sylva Released From Military Detention Center
On Monday, July 17, 2017, Jean-Marie Kalonji and Sylva Mbikayi were released from the Military Detection of Unpatriotic Activities (DEMIAP) …
Urgent Appeal: Free Jean-Marie and Sylva
Friday, July 14th marks three weeks since the Congolese military picked up and detained Jean-Marie Kalonji and Sylva Mbikayi of …
DRC military intelligence arrested photography students
The military intelligence department, well known as P2, arrested this Thursday 2 photography students in the town of Goma, eastern …
Sylva Mbikayi: The People’s Attorney
When Sylva Mbikayi graduated from law school and passed the bar exam, Jean-Marie Kalonji and friends came to celebrate his …
Arrestation des deux activistes à Kinshasa, Kalonji et Maître Mbikayi
Le Vendredi 23 Juin, à 16h30 heure de Kinshasa, Jean-Marie Kalonji, le Coordinateur du groupe rassemblant la jeunesse Quatrième voie/Il …
Cultural center warns against DRC’s move to silence artists’ voices
For Immediate Release Goma – Monday 26 th 2017. The Nyavu Network, regrouping 7 cultural centers across the Great Lakes …
Free Jean-Marie and Sylva: Dispatches from the Ground
The reality of young Congolese fighting to get their comrades Jean Marie Kalonji and Sylva Mbikayi out of military detention. …
On Friday, June 23 at 4:30 PM Kinshasa time, the Coordinator of the youth group Quatrieme Voie/Il Est Temps, Jean-Marie …
Are there intellectuals in the Struggle for Democratic Change in the Congo?
Are there intellectuals in the Struggle for Democratic Change in the Congo? By S.N. Sangmpam** Syracuse University, USA The current …
Congolese Scholar And Activist Pays Hommage to Etienne Tshisekedi
Click here to listen to the interview with Georges Nzongola Ntalaja! Q: Hello Dr. Nzongola. Thank you for giving us …
We Too
“We, Too” by Langston Hughes Oh, Congo brother With your tribal marks, We, too, emerge From ageless darks. We, too, …
Martyrs Day: Telema With Congolese Youth
January 4th is a seminal day in Congo’s history, which serves as a national holiday. On January 4, 1959, ordinary …
Global and Inclusive Political Agreement
The main elements of the Global and Inclusive Political Agreement 1. Joseph Kabila will remain President until the inauguration of …
UN Resolution 2277 and Congo’s Political Impasse
On March 30, 2016, The United Nations Security Council unanimously adopted resolution 2277 (2016) under Chapter VII of the United …
Commemorating the March for Peace
On today, February 16, 2016, Congolese commemorated the seminal “Peaceful March of Christians,” with a shut down of cities (Ville …
Martyrs Day: Congolese Youth Stand Up #Telema
January 4th is a seminal day in Congo’s history, which serves as a national holiday. On January 4, 1959, ordinary …
Libérez Jean Marie Kalonji
Libérez Jean Marie Kalonji Par Kambale Musavuli Porte-Parole de Friends of the Congo (Les Amis du Congo) Mardi, le 15 …
Free Jean Marie Kalonji
Free Jean Marie KalonjiByKambale MusavuliSpokesperson, FOTC On Tuesday, December 15, 2015, young Congolese activist Jean Marie Emmanuel Le Roi Kalonji …
Le discours de Kabila, une voie vers le glissement ?
Le discours de Kabila, une voie vers le glissement ? par Kambale Musavuli En moins d’une année, ( Novembre 2016) …
Kabila’s Speech: Path to Glissement?
Kabila’s Speech: Path to Glissement?1ByKambale Musavuli, Spokesperson In less than one year (November 2016), the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) …
Free Radek
Free RadekBy Francine MukwayaUK Representative Friends of The Congo Congolese youth have stepped up their resistance against the repressive regime …
Libérez Radek
Libérez Radek Par Francine Mukwaya Représentante de la Grande-Bretagne Friends of the Congo La jeunesse congolaise a fait un nouveau …
Letter From G7 to President Kabila
Kinshasa September 14, 2015 Copy for information To members of the Political Bureau of the Presidential Majority, MP ALL IN …
Free FILIMBI Youth
Congolese youth have been mobilizing and taking action throughout the democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). They seek fundamental, peaceful, non-violent …
The March For Democracy
On February 16, 1992, Congolese Christians responded to a call by the Catholic Church to protest peacefully and demand the …
Martyrs Day: Are Congolese Women Paying the Price?
January 4th is a historic day in Congo’s history, which serves as a national holiday. On January 4, 1959, ordinary …
Kabila, Burkina Faso, National Cohesion and Prospects for Change in Congo
As 2014 comes to a close, the dominant challenge facing Congolese people is the lengths to which President Joseph Kabila …
New Congolese Government
President Joseph Kabila named a new government on Sunday, December 7th. Since national consultations in October 2013, many observers have …
Breaking The Silence: Congo Week, October 19 – 25, 2014
Dear Friend, The seventh year of Breaking the Silence: Congo Week will take place from October 19 – 25, 2014. …
Congo Swim Kicks Off Today
COMMUNITY MEMBERS TO SWIM, WALK, RUN AND DANCE FOR PEACE AND END TO VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN AND GIRLS IN DR …
Conflict Minerals and Congolese People’s Priorities
Speech to be delivered by Jeanne Kasongo L.Ngondo of the Shalupe Foundation at the Massachusetts State House, House Chamber on …
Brandeis & Tufts Issue Statements on Paul Kagame’s Visit to their Universities
Wednesday, April 23, 2014 Rwandan President Paul Kagame’s visit to Brandeis University this week is part of appearances he is …
The Pursuit of Democracy Continues
On February 16, 1992, Congolese Christians responded to a call by the Catholic Church to protest peacefully and demand the …
Commemorating Independence Martyrs Day
January 4th is a historic day in Congo’s history, which serves as a national holiday. On January 4, 1959, ordinary …
Prescription for Lasting Peace and Stability
DR Congo: Prescription for Lasting Peace and StabilitybyKambale Musavuli The 17-year quest for peace in the Democratic Republic of Congo …
Congo Week VI Message
As we embark upon the sixth anniversary of Breaking The Silence Congo Week, we greet you in a period of …
The Hard Truths We Must Swallow: The Rwandan Government Wreaking Havoc in Congo
The Hard Truths We Must Swallow: The Rwandan Government Wreaking Havoc in CongoByAlice GatebukeRwandan genocide survivor The Rwandan Genocide was …
Letter to President Kikwete on Dialogue and Peace in Great Lakes
President Jakaya Kikwete Magogoni Road P.O. Box 9120, Dar es Salaam, Re: President Obama’s Visit to Tanzania and Sustainable Solutions …
Bosco Ntaganda’s Surrender
Bosco Ntaganda’s Surrender: What Must Be Different This Time The International Criminal Court (ICC) has taken into custody war crimes …
Obama Administration Official Provides Insights on U.S. Congo Policy
Obama Administration Official Provides Insights on U.S. Congo Policy Last week (Monday, February 11, 2013) at the Brookings Institution, outgoing …
Christians’ March: Still in Pursuit of Democracy in the DRC
On February 16, 1992, Congolese Christians responded to a call by the Catholic Church to protest peacefully and demand the …
Lumumba’s Message to the Youth
Today I am addressing the youth, the young men and women of the Republic of the Congo. In speaking to …
Independence Martyrs Day
January 4th is a seminal day in Congo’s history, which serves as a national holiday. On January 4, 1959, ordinary …
Congolese Youth Organize Peace Concert
On Monday, December 31, 2012, the Youth For A New Society will organize a peace concert in Kisangani, Democratic Republic …
Peaceful women’s vigil for DR Congo
We invite women to join Million Women Rise and Common Cause UK (Platform for Congolese Women in UK) at a …
President Obama Warns Paul Kagame
THE WHITE HOUSE Office of the Press Secretary FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 18, 2012 Readout of the President’s Call with …
The Congo and Why Obama Should not Appoint Susan Rice Secretary of State
The Congo and Why Obama Should not Appoint Susan Rice Secretary of StateBy S.N. SangmpamSyracuse University [This essay was completed …
SADC Extra-Ordinary Summit
The Extraordinary Summit of the Heads of State and Government of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) was held in …
Le Conseil de paix et de sécurité de l’Union africaine (UA) Communiqué sur la situation à l’est de la République démocratique du Congo (RDC)
Communiqué du Conseil de paix et de sécurité de l’Union africaine (UA) en sa 346ème réunion ADDIS ABEBA, Ethiopie, 11 …
The Crisis in the east of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has recently escalated to the point where …
Kisangani Youth Outraged at Fall of Goma
The youth uprising in Kisangani has been fueled by the taking over by M23 of the city of Goma. Kisangani …
Dr. Dennis Mukwege’s Speech at the UN, Sept. 2012
Speech made by Dr. Denis Mukwege on September 25, 2012 at a UN General Assembly side event on sexual violence …
UN Security Council Statement on DRC
Statement by the President of the Security Counciladopted on 19 October 2012on the situation concerning the Democratic Republic of the …
Congo Week: Commemorate The Tragedy, Celebrate the Culture
Dear Friends, I greet you in the midst of these very trying times for my country. Since April, nearly a …
Religious Leaders Collect 1 Million Signatures
Since the middle of July, religious leaders throughout the Congo have been organizing to collect signatures from Congolese citizens as …
Excerpts From SADC Communique, August 18, Maputo, Mozambique
13.1 On DRC, Summit noted with great concern that the security situation in the Eastern part of DRC has deteriorated in …
Keris Dahlkamp Swims For Congo
Keris Dahlkamp began his 22 mile 14 hour swim for Congo across Lake Tahoe today at 1:00 AM. Keris is …
The Obama Administration Withholds Military Aid From Rwanda
The Obama Administration Withholds Military Aid From Rwanda On Saturday, July 21, 2012 the United States officially announced that it …
U.S. Statement on Withholding Aid From Rwanda
In light of information that Rwanda is supporting armed groups in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the Department …
UN Group of Experts Addendum
Excerpts from the UN Group of Experts Report on Rwandan Complicity in the Armed Rebellion in Eastern Congo Since the …
UN Says Rwandan Troops Arm and Train Rebels in Congo
Former AFRICOM head, Kip Ward with James Kaberebe, one of the Rwandan soldiers named in the UN report for providing …
Coalition Calls for U.S. Action to End Instability in the DRC
Africa Great Lakes Coalition Calls for U.S. Action to End Instability in the Democratic Republic of Congo A United Nations …
FILIMBI – “My world, my village. Africa, my country. Congo my province!” Today, June 16 2012, is the International Day …
Help End Impunity in the DR Congo
End the Impunity in Eastern Congo: Hold US Ally to Account The United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the DR …
Appeal Letter to the United States Government
Hello, my name is ___________. I am calling in regard to the escalating violent situation in the Congo. Since March …
DRC: Members of Parliament Tackle Controversial Monusco Report
The situation in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has mobilized the political class in Kinshasa, the capital of the DRC. …
Justice For The Congolese People
In recognition of Genocide Prevention Month, the permanent mission of the Czech Republic to the United Nations and United to …
Panel sur « la guerre de l’Est et ses agendas cachés ». Les recommandations des universitaires et des participants
Le Panel sur la guerre de l’Est et ses agendas cachés, tenu jeudi 10 mai dernier à l’Université de Kinshasa …
Protesting WPU’s Decision To Honor General Kagame
Dr. Ann Fields President William Penn University 201 Trueblood Avenue Oskaloosa, Iowa 52577 WEDNESDAY, May 9, 2012 Dear President Fields: …
Who fears Yole!Africa?
Cultural center Yole!Africa has been preparing to launch a celebration of its 10th anniversary in Goma in July, 2012. However, …
Qui a peur de Yole!Africa ?
Le Centre Culturel Yole! Africa était jusqu’à ces derniers jours en pleine préparation pour lancer la célébration de son 10ème …
Martyrs of Democracy, February 16
Twenty years ago, on February 16, 1992, Congolese Christians responded to a call by the Catholic Church to protest peacefully …
Plane Crash Kills President Kabila’s Main Adviser
A private plane crashed in Bukavu, South Kivu today. Major players in Congo’s political landscape were on the plane and …
MESSAGE OF THE CENCO TO THE CATHOLICS AND TO THE CONGOLESE PEOPLE. « COURAGE AND TRUTH »
Version Francaise!The Congolese is thirsty for Justice and Peace. Courage and Truth (see. II Corinthians 7, 14) Message of the …
Martyrs Day
Today, January 4th 2012, marks the 53rd anniversary of the courageous uprising of young Congolese in Kinshasa, then Leopoldville, to …
Congo: Elections, Democracy and The Diaspora Awakening
The November 28th Presidential and legislative elections were fraught with tremendous irregularities and widespread charges of fraud. The National Independent …
Congolese Women Occupy The United States Embassy in Kinshasa
Congolese Women of the opposition have been occupying the entrance to the U.S. Embassy in Kinshasa, the capital of the …
Congolese Appeal For Justice
Learn more about the elections and the awakening of the Congolese people!
Appeal To World Leaders Regarding The 2011 Elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo
On November 28, 2011, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) held its second presidential and parliamentary elections since the devastating …
Occupy the Phones, to the U.S. Senate, for the Congo
Friends of the Congo and the African Great Lakes Advocates Coalition* would like to urge Occupiers and others of goodwill …
AP Picture of Jubilant Supporters of Kabila
Supporters of Congolese president Joseph Kabila take to the streets in jubilation in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, Friday Dec. …
African Great Lakes Coalition Recommendations to the US Senate
On Tuesday, December 6, 2011 the African Great Lakes Advocacy Coalition (Africa Faith and Justice Network, African Great Lakes Action …
Interview With Professor Georges Nzongola-Ntalaja
Click here to listen to audio version of the interview. Musavuli: Hello Professor Nzongola-Ntalaja. Thank you so much for making …
The Second Partial Results Released by CENI
The Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) released the second partial results today. The results accounted for 21,265 of the 63,835 …
Independent Electoral Commission Publishes Partial Results
The independent Electoral Commission (CENI) published partial results on December 2nd with more to come. The initial results are based …
Observations From A Youth Leader In Kinshasa
In polling station number 10002 at the center Bokolo in the Bandalungwa commune a candidate running for the national legislature …
Congo Elections Unfold Today
The elections began today on time for most of the nearly 64,000 polling stations. The voting has been an overwhelmingly …
The Final Countdown To Congo’s Elections
Dr. Georges Nzongola-Ntalaja explores a wide range of issues in the lead up to the November 28 elections following his …
Elections in the Congo: Are We Headed For An Unmitigated Disaster
One thing that is clear regarding the November 28th elections in the Congo, is that the country is not prepared …
Electoral Commission Says Logistics For the Elections Will be Completed by November 26th
Daniel Ngoy, President of the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) affirmed that the 180,000 ballot boxes were almost all delivered …
Whither The Women of the Congo
Beyond any doubt the women of the Congo have been the primary victims of the instability and conflict that the …
UK MP Eric Joyce Says Congo Loses $5.5 Billion Due to Shady Deals
Bloomberg news has reported that Congolese President in cahoots with Israeli businessman Dan Gertler have fleeced the Congolese people of …
Etienne Tshisekedi Shares His Platform
Leading opposition figure, Etienne Tshisekedi of the UDPS vowed that he would respect the election results or the will of …
Congo Elections: Voices of the People
Between scholars, artists, pastors and politicians who actually determines the leading power in the DRC? Pandisha bendera is a powerful …
Congo Week IV, October 16 – 22, Join The Global Movement
Dear Friends, I greet you in the name of the Congolese youth who feel the wind of change in Africa …
Advocacy in the Democratic Republic of Congo: Stakeholders Conference
October 5th and 6th, 2011 9:30-11:30 am Day one: How the Story of Congo Gets Told Rome Auditorium, Rome Building …
SHOCKING:CONFESSION OF DOWNING OF HABYARIMANA’S PLANE
By Theogene Rudasingwa On August 4, 1993, in Arusha, Tanzania, the Government of Rwanda and the Rwandese Patriotic Front signed …
Anatomy of the Looting of the Congo
Are you still wondering how Congo is looted and who the biggest criminals are? Gecamines sold its 20 percent share …
Seeing No Evil in the Congo
The United States and its allies, Rwanda and Uganda, have played a significant role in the greatest humanitarian crisis at …
Congolese from Chicago plans a rally against Rwandan President General Paul Kagame on Saturday, June 11, 2011
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE!!!! The Congolese people from Chicago, Illinois, would like to invite you to come join them this Saturday, …
Coup Attempt in Kinshasa?
Radio Okapi reports that shots were fired this afternoon near the residence of president Joseph Kabila behind the grand Hotel …
Congressional Briefing to Address Justice and stability in the Congo and Great Lakes Region of Africa
The United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (UNOHCHR) released the official “Report of the Mapping Exercise” …
Rwanda, Congo and the Great Lakes A Battle of Narratives
The past few months have witnessed a shift in the narrative by some of Paul Kagame’s staunchest supporters. Most notably, …
Congo’s Egypt, February 16, Sixteen Years Ago
On February 16, 1993, at least one million Congolese of all ages participated in the “March of Hope” in Kinshasa, …
How Uganda’s President Museveni Created Kill-The-Gays Mentality
The murder of David Kato, a gay rights activist in Uganda who was bludgeoned with a hammer, can be laid …
ASADHO Condemns Political Intolerance Fostered by the Congolese Government
PRESS RELEASE NO 02/ASADHO/2011 “ASADHO condemns political intolerance fostered by the Congolese government on the eve of general elections in …
Ambassdor Meece Presents at Woodrow Wilson Center
Ambassador Roger Meece, UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative for the Democratic Republic of the Congo gave a presentation in Washington, DC …
DRC Elections: Indifference is the Enemy
On 16 December 2010, I was observing the roads around Bukavu, and was impressed by the thousands of people who …
Friendly Tyrants of the United States
I adore Roger Cohen’s writing. And it is not just the quality of the writing itself. Roger’s deep appreciation of …
Patrice Lumumba: 50 Years Later, Remembering the U.S.-Backed Assassination of Congo’s First Democrat
Lumumba Resources 50th Anniversary Commemoration videos, articles, speeches and other materials Read biography of Patrice Lumumba Purchase Patrice Lumumba -shirts …
Dedicated to the memory and spirit of Patrice Emery Lumumba
Patrice Lumumba Dedicated to the memory and spirit of Patrice Emery Lumumba(2 July 1925–17 January 1961) The soldiers stole you …
Commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of the Assassination of Lumumba
January 17, 2011 is the 50th anniversary of the assassination of Congo’s first democratically elected Prime Minister, Patrice Emery Lumumba. …
American Youth Make Appeal on Behalf of Congo
Increasingly, American youth are taking a stand in support of the people of Congo by calling on world leaders to …
Interview With Kambale Musavuli
1. There is war in the Congo: who are the major forces involved in the actual fighting? The major forces …
Day of the Martyrs of Independence
January 4th is a seminal day in Congo’s history, which serves as a national holiday. On January 4, 1959, Congolese …
New Year’s Message to the Congolese Youth
On this New Year’s day, the Congolese youth of America wishes you a wonderful new year in 2011. May it …
Congo Removed from AGOA List
President Barack Obama removed the Democratic Republic of Congo from the list of African countries eligible for trade preferences under …
Letter to Dear Hillary Campaign
Democratic Republic of CongoSenate Office Kinshasa, December 6th, 2010N / Réf. : 014/CPBME/12/2010To American students, Organizers of the Dear Hillary …
Coalition to UN Security Council: Address UN Congo Mapping Report and Enforce Justice for Victims
Wednesday, December 15, 2010 – This month the US and the UN Security Council must choose: will they hold accountable …
Cabot Makes Questionable Ten Year Claim
American coltan processing company, Cabot Corporation recently released a press statement declaring that they are conflict free. One supposes they …
UN Mapping Report: Just Another Report With No Consequences?
During the first week of December a number of events took place in Washington related to the Congo. FOTC research …
Activists Successfully Demonstrate Against Paul Kagame in Europe
President Kagame did not attend the round table discussion he was supposed to participate in, nor did he show up …
Letter to President of DRC From Wife of Floribert Chebeya
To: The President of the Democratic Republic of Congo At Kinshasa Gombe From: Annie Mangbenga Nzinga Floribert Chebeya’s widow Object: …
Wikileaks Confirm Much of What We Suspected
The latest information distributed from Wikilieaks confirm much of what followers of Congo and the Great Lakes suspected. However, one …
Eastern Congo Initiative Calls For Active US Engagement to Help Bring Peace to Congo
The Eastern Congo Initiative released a White Paper on the Congo on today. The paper outlines nine objectives for critical …
Congo in Harlem II: October 17 – 23, 2010
Congo in Harlem 2 is the second annual series of Congo-related films, performances and discussions at the Maysles Cinema in …
Congolese Human Rights Activist Present To US Congress
Congolese activist Justine Masika Bihamba of Synergie Des Femmes pour les victimes des Violences Sexuelle Breaks The Silence and presented …
UN Report On War Crimes in The Congo: Will The Congolese People Finally Get Justice?
The below is a critique of Nick Kristof’s blog on the issue: http://kristof.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/08/27/the-u-n-report-on-war-crimes-in-congo/ Click here (PDF) to download UN Report. …
BLOOD MINERALS:The Criminalization of the Mining Industry in Eastern DRC
The Pole Institute convened representatives from diverse sectors of the Congolese society to share their analysis and prescriptions for addressing …
Conflict Minerals: An Attempt to Weaken Congo’s Social Justice Movement
The narrative that is being pushed by the United States government and former government officials who head “grassroots” organizations is …
STANFORD: New proxy voting policy on conflict minerals
Stanford will vote “yes” on shareholder resolutions asking companies to report their efforts to avoid using “conflict minerals” from Congo …
A Critique of Jon Rosen’s Essay About President Paul Kagame of Rwanda
Jon Rosen’s essay about President Paul Kagame is outrageous—for myriad reasons. Consider just four. http://www.worldpoliticsreview.com/discussion/show/5629 First, Rosen mentions only Amnesty …
This blog has moved
This blog is now located at http://congofriends.blogspot.com/. You will be automatically redirected in 30 seconds, or you may click here. …
Say No To Canadian Troops For Congo and Yes To Canadian Diplomacy
By Bodia Macharia, President, Friends of Congo University of Toronto As Canada’s Governor-General Michaelle Jean visits the Democratic Republic of …
The Condition of Women in the Congo
15th ANNUAL WOMENS AMBASSADORS CONFERENCE “Recovery from Natural Catastrophes,Wars,and the Financial Crisis” By: Saran Traore, Research Analyst, Friends Of The …
“Countries at the Crossroads”
“Countries at the Crossroads” Political Turmoil and Receding Reform: Democratic Governance in Uncertain Times By Saran Traore, Research Analyst, the …
Military Presence and Aid Not the Answer
Increased military presence and aid alone will not prevent another Makombo Massacre. By Noelle Barber The tragedy in Northeastern Congo …
Congolese Women Appeal to the Global Community
Congolese Women Offer Prescriptions for Ending Sexual Violence in CongoByBibiane Aningina Tshefu, Women’s Coordinator & Adviser, Friends of the Congo …
Congolese Women Message to the UK Parliament
1. Although the title of this event is stating that there is “Still no News on Congo”, we Congolese women …
A Message From Congolese Women on the 8th March International Women’s Day
Only Congolese will initiate and bring change in the D.R.C. Despite all local challenges and harmful international interference in R.D.Congo …
Nii Akuetteh’s Letter to Nicholas Kristof
Mr. Kristof: Your just-concluded Congo series is superb. Thanks. Its two central questions outshine its many other gems: Given the …
Why Nicholas Kristof is Wrong on Congo
In Nicholas Kristof’s latest (February 11, 2010 NY Times Commentary) prescriptions for the Congo he gets a lot wrong. He …
Haiti Needs Your Support: Message by Wyclef Jean
“Haiti today faced a natural disaster of unprecedented proportion, an earthquake unlike anything the country has ever experienced. The magnitude …
The United Nations and the Suffering of Congolese Civilians
The United Nations group of experts recently published their final report of the group of experts (PDF). They have been …
The Basics of the Chinese Deal
In the wake of this morning’s report by Bloomberg news we have to take a moment to lay bear how …
China, Congo and the International Monetary Fund
Over the next several days we will deconstruct the Chinese Congo deal and the role of the International Monetary Fund …
The Militarization of the Congo: When Will It Stop
The recent Human Rights Watch report and reports from many Congolese have consistently documented the failed nature of the military …
Our mining companies’ responsibility to the Congo: Response from FOTC Canada
The 2002, 2003 and 2008 UN reports from the Panel of Experts on Illegal Exploitation of Natural Resources and Other …
Hip-Hop Battle Packs Out Stadium in Goma
Cercle Sportif, the main basketball court in town, was filled with 3,500 people sitting in the bleachers, climbing on the …
SKIFF Workshop, Goma, DRC
SKIFF hosted two film and script-writing workshops led by Congolese filmmaker Petna Ndaliko and Kenyan filmmaker and human rights activist, …
US Ambassador to Congo to Discuss AFRICOM
SAIS African Studies and the Institute for Policy StudiesPresentThe Future of US Military Involvement in AfricaThe Case of the Democratic …
Congo Women Journalists Face Death Threats
Three female radio reporters in Eastern Congo have received anonymous death threats as they fight to expose violence against women. …
An effective way to help women in Congo: President of FOTC Canada Responds to Toronto Star
LETTER TO THE EDITOR TheStar.com | Opinion | An effective way to help women in Congo An effective way to …
Letter From Congolese Elected Officials to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton
TO MADAME SECRETARY OF STATE of USA, C / ° U.S. Embassy in Kinshasa, DR Congo. We, members of national …
Secretary Clinton Challenged in Congo Town Hall
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton was challenged by a Congolese student in a town hall meeting in Kinshasa today. During …
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton Starts Her Tour of Africa
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton began her tour of Africa today with a stop in Kenya. She will also visit …
Obama Visits Ghana
A coalition of advocates for Africa has laid out policy prescriptions for the African continent on the eve of President …
Congolese Woman Activist Testifies in Congress
Visit our Women’s Corner for more information and how you can get involved!View brief excerpt from Lynn Nottage’s “Ruined”
Congressional Hearing on Congo & Sudan
Congressional Hearing on Congo & Sudan Date: Wednesday, May 13, 2009 2:30 PM The joint subcommittee hearing on gender-based violence …
The case FOR the Congo
The case FOR the Congo A response to There is No Congo, by Jeffrey Herbst and Greg Mills, posted March …
Congo: The World’s Second Lung, An Earth Day Special
Congo and Climate Change – An OverviewBy Rebekah Delling Above the cacophony of, elephants, gorillas and the other 6,000 animal …
Congratulations to Lynn Nottage
Brooklyn born Playwright Lynn Nottage became only the second African American woman to win a Pullitzer Prize for drama for …
Few Benefits to the People of Congo From Mining Review
The Carter Center says that the people of the Congo will realize few benefits from the two-year mining review process …
Message of Support from Alice Walker
To my beautiful sisters in the Congo: I write to you today to send you my love, my deep wishes …
Has Kabila Been Chastened and China Thwarted?
When rebel leader Laurent Nkunda launched his offensive against the people of the Congo in the Fall of 2008, one …
Message to the US Administration: Militarization is NOT The Answer
Americans and others in the West often ask what does the conflict in Congo have to do with us? Well, …
Congolese Would Have to be Insane …
Congolese would have to be insane if they believe that the aggressor nations of Rwanda and Uganda are now agents …
Laurent Nkunda’s “Arrest:” Rwanda’s Latest Shell Game in Response to International Pressure
Over the past week, events have unfolded at a dizzying pace in the Central Africa region; hence Friends of Congo …
U.S. Trained Rwandan Soldiers Not the Answer
Let us see if we got this right. The United Nations publish a groundbreaking study that affirms what the Congolese …
Congolese Commemorate Lumumba
Speech to be delivered on January 17, 2009 in Raleigh 48 years ago, on this 17th day of January, the …
British Foreign Minister Miliband In Denial About Western Corporate Role in Fueling Conflict in the Congo
U.S. & British Ally Fuels Conflict in the Congo
The United Nations published a report by its expert panel that supports what the Congolese people have known and been …
Major General Patrick Cammaert Explains Why the Military Approach is Not the Solution in the Congo
New York Times Getting Closer to the Truth on the Resource War in the Congo
Although the New York Times did not reveal the whole truth in Jeffrey Gettleman’s piece, Rwanda Stirs Deadly Brew of …
Letter From a Congolese Journalist
Dear friends, -I have been receiving hundreds of mails and phone calls asking me about the Congolese Crisis and what …
Why Does Nkunda Repeatedly Call for the Renegotiation of the Chinese Contract?
In his meeting with Special United Nations Envoy to the Congo, Olusegun Obasanjo, rebel leader Laurent Nkunda repeated as one …
UN Special Envoy Obesanjo Makes the Rounds
Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo is making his rounds in the region. On Friday, he met with President Joseph Kabila …
Where Things Stand
A few observations are warranted based on the week of activities inside and outside of the Congo:1. The mainstream media …
More Meetings, More Agreements, Less Change
UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon best sums up the meeting around the Congo on Friday, November 7, 2008 when he …
New Policy Paper on Dire Situation in Congo
Perhaps you have heard the recent news – thousands of civilians are being forced to flee in eastern D.R. Congo …
Is Nkunda Hospitalized in Kigali?
La Libre belgique has raised the question as to whether rebel leader Laurent Nkunda is injured and residing in a …
Congo Prime Minister, Antoine Gizenga Resigns
Antonie Gizenga resigned from his post as Prime Minister today. He was head of the Unified Lumumbist Party (PALU). Gizenga …
Breaking the Silence of 1,500 Deaths Each Day
By Tim Butcher FIFTEEN HUNDRED people die in the Congo each day as a result of conflict but the world’s …
Students and Community Organizers Launch Countdown to Break the Silence Congo Week
The United Nations says the conflict in the Congo is the deadliest in the world since World War Two. Since …
Speak for the silent
By Georgianne Nienaber If 6 million people were killed or simply vanished off the face of the Earth, you might …
UN Plane Crashes in Congo: 17 Feared Dead
KINSHASA (Reuters) – A humanitarian plane carrying 17 passengers and crew that went missing in east Democratic Republic of Congo …
Living With Fear: A Survey of the People of Congo
The International Center for Transitional Justice, the Human Rights Center at the University of California, Berkeley and the Payson Center …
Congo Student Organizes Global Movement
At the age of 17, I was sad to leave the Congo but happy to be alive. My family and …
DRC Health Crisis Examined by BBC
The BBC World Service is running a series on Congo’s health infrastructure. Dr. mwamba made the most salient point when …
Kagame Lashes Out Against ICC
Rwandan president, Paul Kagame lashes out against the International Criminal Court (ICC). His critiques of the ICC -primarily that poor …
The ICC: Is its Credibility in Question?
Over the past few weeks many experts have weighed in on the happenings at the International Criminal Court (ICC). From …
Brent Stirton on Gorillas, Guerillas and Congo Conflict
Brent Stirton provides an in depth interview on NPR’s Fresh Air. Below are some highlights and salient points from his …
Happy Birthday Patrice
Today would have been Patrice Lumumba’s 83rd birthday. Although the Congo is still in the clutches of the enemies of …
Congo Celebrates its 48th Year of Independence
Today, June 30, 2008, Congo celebrates its 48th year of independence from Belgium. However, for all intents and purposes Congo …
Ben Affleck Brings Attention to Congo
ABC News reports that Ben Affleck traveled to the Congo three times in the last eight months ostensibly to understand …
UN Classifies Rape As War Tactic
The United Nations classified rape as a war tactic. The US-sponsored resolution was adopted unanimously by the 15-member council. The …
Congo – Belgium: How Real is the Split
Since Belgium Foreign Minister Karl De Gucht criticized the Kabila regime for lack of transparency in its dealing with China, …
Bemba Arrested on War Crimes Charges
Former presidential candidate and vice president of the Congo was arrested on Saturday, May 24, 2008 in Beligum by Belgian …
UN Under Fire in the Congo
The United Nations (UN) has had a checkered history in the Congo, since the role it played in the removal …
Grand Inga: Who Will Benefit
The ability of Congo to provide electricity for the entire African continent and have enough left over to export to …
Plane Crashes in Goma, DRC
An unfortunate accident happened today in the beleagured Congo. In addition to the conflict, previous plane crashes and an earth …
Government Repression in the Congo: The Case of Bundu Dia Kongo
The Congolese government through its police forces has again targeted the people of Bundu Dia Kongo (BDK); a religio-political organization …
Some Shocking Facts Behind the Mining Review Process
Click below links to view contract review reports:Report One – PDF (French)Report Two – PDF (French) 1. During the transition …
Carter Center Levels Critique of Mining Contracts
The Carter Center released a press release on Congo’s Mining Review process. They are one of the participating institutions in …
Shake Down or Down With the People
The Congolese government accelerated the mining review process and gave the 60 odd companies whose contracts were under review until …
Congo Mining Review: Chaos or Progress?
The Congolese government recently made details of the mining review available to mining companies in the Congo. According to the …
What’s At Stake in the Congo? Not Merely Mining Contracts
Although much has been written about the Congo’s contract review process, the essence of what is really at stake has …
Mining Review Process to be Accelerated
Congolese deputy mining minister Victor Kasongo announced last week that the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) will accelerate the mining …
Earthquake Rocks Congo
Two deadly earthquakes rocked the Congo and Rwanda on Sunday, killing 39 people and injuring hundreds. As if war and …
The Devil is in the Details
Although a peace accord was signed in the Congo, many fundamental outstanding questions remain. Neither Rwanda nor the Interahamwe participated …
Peace Deal Signed: Where Now?
Reuters reported that “The peace pact in the eastern town of Goma was subscribed to by Tutsi rebels loyal to …
Peace Agreement on Hold, 5.4 Million Reported Dead
The Peace Conference that was supposed to end this past weekend is delayed once again to a date to be …
Auspicious Start to Peace Conference
The peace conference on the Kivus (North and South Kivu) initiated by Joseph Kabila got off to an auspicious start …
Kivu Peace Conference
The peace conference in the Kivus is scheduled to begin on January 6, 2008. On Thursday, December 27, 2007 preparations …
Congolese Continue to Experience Hell: What are the Answers
Long before the 2006 elections, Congolese pro-democracy forces called for national reconciliation and justice in an effort to stem the …
Kabila One Year Later
On December 6, 2006 Joseph Kabila was sworn in as President of the Congo. One year later, on December 6, …
Congo’s Contract Review Process
On June 11, 2007 the Congo’s Ministry of Mining launched a review of 60 existing mining contracts. These contracts were …
Security and Hypocrisy in the Congo
Jean Pierre Bemba and his family left the Congo for Portugal this week. Bemba had been hold up in the …
Congo’s Unresolved Security
Fighting has continued for a second straight day in Kinshasa, the Capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The …
Friends of the Congo Brings its Message of Congolese Self-Determination to World Social Forum
Over 50,000 activists representing many non profit organizations attended the 7th World Social Forum. The forum was set up at …
Lumumba 46 Years Later
This past week people around the world commemorated the birthday (January 15, 1929) of Martin Luther King, Jr., and reflected …
Kabila Sworn In As President
On december 6, 2006, Joseph Kabila was sworn in as the first elected president in over 40 years. The youngest …
Supreme Court Makes it Official
To no one’s surprise, the Congolese supreme court ruled that the charges of vote fraud brought by Jean Pierre Bemba …
Bemba Files With Supreme Court
On Saturday, November 18, 2006 Jean Pierre Bemba filed his case with the Supreme Court and formally contested the results …
Kabila Wins, Bemba Disputes
Joseph Kabila was declared president of the Democratic Republic of the Congo by the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI) with 58 …
Catholic Church Cries Foul
Cardinal Frédéric Etsou, Archbishop of Kinshasa claimed that just as in the first round of the votes, the Independent Electoral …
Kabila On The Verge of Victory but Bemba’s Coalition and the Catholic Church Cry Foul
Kabila appears to be heading to victory in the presidential runoff with almost 95 percent of the votes counted, Kabila …
90 Percent of Partial Results Reported: One Million Votes Being Contested
The Independent Electoral Commission (CEI in French) reported that Joseph Kabila has 60 percent of the votes while Jean Pierre …
Kabila Strengthens Lead, Opposition Cries Fraud, Political Crisis Looms
With 65 percent of the vote counted Kabila leads Bemba in the quest for the presidency. Kabila has 60.67 percent …
CEI Releases More Results – Kabila and Bemba Meet Behind Closed Doors
The Independent Electoral Commission (CEI in French) released more results today. The latest results has Kabila still in the lead …
Partial Results Released
In an effort to break the tension in the Congo and cut down on the rumors about election results, the …
Turn Out Lower Than First Round: Results Expected to be Close
Many observers and analysts have indicated that the turn out for the October 29th run-off elections was lower than the …
Dispatches from the Congo
Friends of the Congo delegation to observe the elections says things are very calm in Kinshasa. Although there was a …
The Climate Stinks
“The climate stinks,” a Western diplomat told Reuters in Kinshasa. “We are trying to bring democracy to a country through …
Bizarre Campaign With Less Than A Week to Go
According to one of the Friends of the Congo’s observers on the ground in the Congo, one would hardly know …
The Second Round Has Begun: Will it Usher in More War or a Path to Democratic Rule?
The second round of the presidential elections began on Saturday October 15 and will culminate in a nationwide vote on …
John Le Carre Says Congo Was Merely a Backdrop to Mission Song
John Le Carre in his latest novel says that he did not intend to write about the Congo. He noted …
Alliances Develop in Advance of the Second Round
Over the past week a series of alliances have developed in advance of the run-off between Jean Pierre Bemba and …
Kabila & Bemba Meet While Supreme Court Rules October 29 Run-Off Date Unconstitutional
Kabila and Bemba finally met on Wednesday, September 13 during a meeting of the head of state and the four …
Diplomatic Flurry to Bring the Belligerents Together
Thus far this week,Kinshasa, DRC has witnessed a diplomatic flurry, from the President of South Africa, Thabo Mbeki to the …
Legislative Race: Presidential Coalition Does Not Win Majority
The Independent Electoral Commission released the legislative results today. Kabila’s coalition, the Alliance of a Presidential Majority (AMP) garnered 200 …
Update: Legislative Results
With almost all the attention focused on the presidential race, the legislative/parliamentary races get very little focus. Five hundred seats …
Truth Behind the Conflict Begins to Unfold
As Friends of the Congo reported in previous dispatches, reliable sources in Kinshasa had shared with us that on the …
Fragile Calm in Kinshasa
Another day of calm has passed in Kinshasa but below the surface tensions are still high. Diplomats continue to work …
Kabila and Bemba Still Have not met to Squash Their Beef
Diplomats continue to put pressure on Kabila and Bemba to meet to sign the accord that was agreed upon this …
Truce Holds, Kinshasa Calm
The Congo’s capital is relatively calm under the patrol of United Nations and European troops. The Congolese troops have been …
Cease Fire Agreement Reached
The Kabila government and Bemba rebel forces have agreed to a cease fire. The cease fire was brokered by the …
Fighting Continues
According to the Friends of the Congo sources from Kinshasa, fighting continues in the nation’s capital. The streets are empty, …
Heavy Gunfire in Kinshasa: Jean Pierre Bemba’s House in Flames and Surrounded by the GSSP
Friends of the Congo sources on the ground have reported that there is heavy gunfire in the Congo’s capital, Kinshasa. …
CEI Releases National Preliminary Results
The Independent Electoral Commission released the preliminary report last night on the July 30, 2006 election results. Before the announcement, …
Run-off a Certainty
According to reports from media documenting the results in the Congo, the run-off is a certainty. Although, the official results …
Swing Delivers Bad News to Kabila
Reliable sources have shared with the Friends of the Congo that on Friday, August 18, 2006, William Swing, head of …
Operation Passage A Force
The international community is in a fix in the Congo. Although they would like to install Kabila as president in …
Kinshasa Vote May Lead to Run-Off
As the votes finally come in from Kinshasa, it appears that a run-off may occur in the Congo. With one …
Kabila Maintains Lead – Angola Move Troops
Kabila maintains his enormous lead and remains comfortably above 50 percent. With 82 of the 169 counting centers reporting, Kabila …
Kabila Maintains Lead
With almost half of the votes in Kabila remains above 50 percent at 53.3% while his closest follower Jean Pierre …
Kabila’s Lead Slips
As the count continues to unfold in the Congo, Kabila’s lead wavers. Very reliable sources in the Congo share with …
Results Still Show Kabila in the Lead, Moving Beyond the 50% Mark
The latest results released by the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI) still shows Kabila in the lead moving beyond the 50 …
Poll Results Continue to Trickle Out
Early poll results have Kabila leading. The latest report gives Kabila 46 percent and Bemba 24 percent. The results are …
Counting of Ballots Remain Problematic
Today the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI) released results from 8 of 169 constituencies. Interestingly enough, the CEI began the releases …
Uranium Makes Self-Determination Questionable at Best
The London Times reported that in October of 2005 Iran attempted to import Uranium 238 from the Congo. Tanzanian port …
Independent Electoral Commission (CEI) to Start Publishing Results on August 7, 2006
Do to growing unrest and speculation, it appears that the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI) will start publishing results from polling …
Early Results: Sun City by Other Means
The Friends of the Congo delegation is still in the Congo. Polling stations have begun to post results. However, official …
Peaceful Elections
The Friends of the Congo observation delegation in Kinshasa reported that the voting in Kinshasa was peaceful as it was …
Dispatch from Kinshasa: Kabila Security Forces Kidnap Presidential Candidate Campaign Staff
The Friends of the Congo were contacted minutes ago from Kinshasa by one of the presidential candidates, Alafuele Mbuyi Kalala …
UN Mission Announces International Committee of the Wise
The UN Mission in the Congo,known by its French acronym MONUC, announced an international committee of the wise to assist …
The Calm Before the Vote
The Friends of the Congo delegation has arrived on the ground in Kinshasa and has obtained its credentials for observation …
The Last Day to Campaign
Friday, July 28 is the last day for the candidates to campaign. Campaigning will end today, no campaigning will take …
Protests Repressed Once Again in Kinshasa
Several thousand marchers in Kinshasa protesting irregularities in the election process were violently repressed once again by the police. Several …
Peaceful March Violently Repressed by Police, Carter Center Issues Election Update
On July 11, 2006 a peaceful march organized by the 19 presidential candidates calling for a cessation of the elections …
Kabila A No Show To Consultations
The dialogue organized on June 30 by Azarias Ruberwa was eschewed by president Kabila. In addition to kabila, vice president …
Election Campaign Begins on Independence Day
The first multi-party elections in 46 years began at midnight on Thursday, June 29. The campaign period will run through …
Uncertainty is the Order of the Day
Twenty-four hours before the official start of the thirty-day campaign period, uncertainty and concern are the order of the day. …
Catholic Church Speaks With One Voice
The Catholic Church spoke with one voice making seven suggestions in a message of hope to the Congolese people. The …
Annan Calls for Calm
The United Nations Security Council published its 21st report on its mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Click …
Tensions Rise in Kinshasa
As the June 30th date approaches, which will mark the end of the transition period, tensions in Kinshasa are rising. …