We continue to monitor the political situation in Congo as well as the Ebola outbreak in Beni. The good news is it appears the outbreak in Beni has slowed as reports indicate a decrease in new cases. We are disheartened though, by the continued turmoil and uncertainty as serious questions have surfaced regarding the election results. The fact that internet communications remains shutdown for the majority of the country is also concerning. Right now, our only mode of communication with our community in Congo is via phone service. Despite this all, we know the CI community is doing well - working hard to improve the lives of others and grow together as they seek to create a different future for Congo. In fact, the spirits are running high at the new "Town Campus." It has brought the community together in a new and special way as they strengthen their solidarity with one another and the people of Beni.
Here is some of the latest news:
"In a statement released late on Thursday, the [African Union (AU)] said there were “serious doubts” over the outcome, and said heads of state and government agreed to “urgently dispatch” a high-level delegation to DRC with “the view to reaching a consensus on a way out of the post-electoral crisis. The heads of state and government attending the meeting concluded that there were serious doubts on the conformity of the provisional results as proclaimed by the National Independent Electoral Commission, with the verdict of the ballot boxes.”
www.theguardian.com/world/2019/jan/17/african-union-democratic-republic-congo-dc-delay-election-a...
African Union calls on DRC to delay election announcement
theguardian.com
Bloc has ‘serious doubts’ over vote, for which declared runner up has called a recountIn the wake of elections and amidst political turmoil, we remember Patrice Lumumba, Congo’s leader of independence, assassinated on this day in 1961 with the help of western actors, including the CIA. “We are going to keep watch over the lands of our country so that they truly profit her children.” Patrice Lumumba (July 2, 1925 - January 17, 1961)
Special thanks to @dukeghi for the shout out on this important project highlighting what is possible through authentic partnership at the collective individual level. Looking forward to sharing this video soon so more communities can find ways to get involved with Congo and Congo Initiative! #Repost @dukeghi with @get_repost
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Last week, the @motion117 video crew came to collect footage of David Eagle, an associate in research at @dukechpir, for a video commissioned by @congoinitiative, a Christian NGO that trains Congolese leaders and global partners united for a flourishing Democratic Republic of Congo. The video will highlight Congo Initiative’s partnership with Blacknall Presbyterian Church in Durham, NC, and illustrates how members can get involved with the organization. In the video, David will talk about how his clergy health research in Congo developed through Blacknall and professional opportunities at @dukeuniversity.
@dukedivinity #clergy #video #drc #trenthalllife
Here is a short recap of the developments around Congo's recent elections, including SADC call for DR Congo election vote recount.
Regional body SADC calls for DR Congo election vote recount
aljazeera.com
SADC says Kinshasa should recount votes of the disputed December 30 election and form a national unity government.Last night, the results of Congo's election were declared, but serious questions remain about the circumstances of the "victory," the election process, and what the future looks like for the people of Congo. One thing remains clear to our CI community: Investing in Congo's future leaders - courageous women and men committed to leading with integrity, strength, compassion, and service - is paramount to bring about lasting change in DRC. Already, courageous women and men are demonstrating a different kind of leadership. We are proud of our CI and UCBC staff, students, and alumni who continue to inspire their friends, family, and neighbors, and us around the world. Standing in solidarity with the people of Congo and particularly those in Beni. Tuko Pamoja.
www.nytimes.com/2019/01/09/world/africa/congo-election-result.html?fbclid=IwAR2ik3y-yGfIr1f6KrxeC...
Congo Says Felix Tshisekedi Won Election, Rebuffing Independent Review
nytimes.com
Outside observers said another presidential candidate, Martin Fayulu, was the runaway winner. Mr. Fayulu called the official results an “electoral swindle.”
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