DRC opposition reneging on unity boosts Kabila protege
The move means the next government will be less likely to modify new mining legislation that’s deeply unpopular with miners including Glencore and Randgold
Kinshasa — Two key Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) opposition leaders withdrew their support for a joint candidate in next month’s election, increasing the likelihood that President Joseph Kabila’s protege will win. That could raise the risk of instability in a key supplier of the metals used in electric vehicles and mobile phones. It also means the next government will be less likely to modify new mining legislation that is deeply unpopular with miners including Glencore and Randgold Resources for boosting taxes and removing investor protections. The decision by Felix Tshisekedi and Vital Kamerhe to renege on a deal to unify behind one figure removes a major bloc of support for Martin Fayulu in his bid to defeat Kabila’s anointed successor, Emmanuel Ramazani Shadary, in a country that has never had a smooth change of power. Tshisekedi, head of the biggest opposition party, and Kamerhe, who finished third in the last vote in 2011, reversed course a day after agreeing to a pact in...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.