(UTV|COLOMBO) – Democratic Republic of Congo President Joseph Kabila will not seek election for a third term, his Spokesperson announced Wednesday (08).
Kabila instead nominated his Interior Minister Emmanuel Ramazani Shadary as his successor.
The announcement reported in local media brought an end to speculation that Kabila would bypass the country’s two-term limit to stand in 23 December elections.
Kabila succeeded his father, Laurent, after his assassination in 2001 and has since maintained a strong grip over the central African nation.
His second term ended in 2016 but he refused to step down from power leading to widespread protests where 17 people died.
Kabila tried to change the constitution to extend his term in Office – despite an agreement reached by his representatives and Opposition Leaders.
Congo’s former Vice President Jean-Pierre Bemba returned to the country last week and has announced plans to contest in December elections.
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