Opposition forms coalition to stop Kabila

MORE than 27 high-profile Congolese figures, including Moise Katumbi, considered a main opposition candidate in next year’s presidential polls, have formed a coalition aimed at preventing a bid from Joseph Kabila for a third term.

According to Reuters, the opposition figures in statement said, “We have decided to combine our forces, our human and material resources, our strategies and our actions, to create a citizen coalition named ‘Citizen Front 2016’.”

Kabila, who is constitutionally barred from seeking a third term in office, had not commented publicly on his political ambitions despite critics’ accusations that he is attempting to cling to power.

The announcement came as the vast central African country’s parliament contemplates giving more protection from prosecution to former rulers, viewed as a way of encouraging Kabila to step down in November next year.