Stories from Kinshasa · DR Congo

Initial findings indicate a non-Zaire Ebola virus strain was detected in 20 out of 20 samples tested. The Ebola virus outbreak in Congo is characterized by a less deadly variant, leading to a continued spread. Health officials are working to contain the spread of the virus.

The World Health Organization has declared a public health emergency of international concern for the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Neighboring countries in East Africa are being alerted to the risk. There are over 300 suspected cases and 80 deaths reported in the Republic of Congo. The virus has no approved tests or vaccines. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared an international health emergency due to the Ebola outbreak in Congo and Uganda. The WHO stated the outbreak is unlikely to cause a global pandemic. The WHO's Europe Regional Director called it a health emergency. Frontline teams will receive stronger surveillance and support. Health officials are urgently trying to reach locations with confirmed cases. The strain has a mortality rate of about 50 percent. The declaration was made on Sunday.

Human Rights Watch has found evidence of atrocities, including mass killings and sexual violence, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The report states dozens of civilians were affected.

Talks are underway in Switzerland between Kinshasa, representing the Democratic Republic of Congo government, and the FCM 23 rebels. The State of Qatar is mediating these discussions.

The President of the Democratic Republic of Congo held a three-hour press conference on May 6th in Kinshasa. During the conference, he did not exclude the possibility of a third term, which is seen as a political turning point. Congolese President Félix Tsisekedi, in power since 2019, stated on Wednesday in Kinshasa that he is ready for a third term if the Congolese people ask him, with a nuance regarding 'all change.' He also noted that elections might not be organized in 2028, but clarified it would not be due to his refusal, as resources are available. Tsisekedi added that elections would not be organized without the North and South Kimou. Discussions continue regarding the Congolese president's mandate, with inquiries made about potential changes to his term.

Three individuals have withdrawn from the Democratic Republic of Congo elections this week. The withdrawals are specifically related to 'Soka, Fekofa,' which refers to football and the Fekofa federation.

President Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo has mentioned the possibility of postponing upcoming elections. He stated that if the war in eastern Congo does not end, he does not believe the country can hold free and credible elections.

The Société Nationale d'Électricité (SNEL) in the Democratic Republic of Congo reportedly represents a portion of the country's GDP. RFI Afrique stated SNEL accounts for approximately 70% of the GDP, while RFI Monde reported a figure of about 60%.

The United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) has not taken on the burden of the government, according to a source.

President Tshisekedi stated to the press that he is ready if the Congolese people request it. President Félix Tshisekedi has urged Congolese citizens to accept the new constitution of the Republic of Congo. The source said the necessity for the Congolese people to embrace this new constitutional framework. Congolese President Martin Fayulu has appointed President Felix Sekedi to be the spokesperson for the delegation. Fayulu was elected by the three in the election and has been appointed to this role.