Congolese Elections

The United States commends the people of the Democratic Republic of Congo on the conduct of historic July 30 presidential and parliamentary elections, the first open national elections held since 1960. Despite enormous logistical challenges and threats of intimidation in parts of the country, initial reports were that the voting process was peaceful with few reported problems. Voter turnout was higher than for the December 18, 2005 constitutional referendum.

This achievement is a testament to the will of the Congolese people to develop their democratic institutions. The United States congratulates the Democratic Republic of Congo on this important step towards building a prosperous and peaceful democracy.