Statement by H.E. Ambassador Yoshifumi Okamura
Deputy Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations
At the Briefing of the United Nations Security Council
On the Situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo  

5 December 2016

 

 

Mr. President,

 

          I would like to thank SRSG Sidikou and ASG Zerihoun for their briefings. Japan welcomes the timely adoption of the Presidential Statement, following the Council visit to DRC last month.

 

          December 19 approaches in 2 weeks. DRC is entering a critical phase for its peace and security. Japan would like to call on the Congolese stakeholders to observe following three points:

 

          Firstly, both the Government and the opposition should seriously engage in direct dialogue. During the Council visit to Kinshasa, I strongly advocated for the necessity of President Kabila and Mr. Tshisekedi having direct talks to find a way forward. Both parties should show their leadership.

 

          Secondly, preventing and deterring mass violence is a shared responsibility of all the Congolese parties, including not only the Government but also the opposition. Violence in the streets can never be the last resort to achieve any political objectives. We strongly hope that the opposition leaders will show their determination in preventing demonstrations from being spoiled by violence. As Mr. Sidikou said, political will of both sides is urgently required.

 

          Lastly, during our meeting in Kinshasa, some members of the ruling party told us that logistical and financial difficulties prevented them from organizing timely elections. DRC is a country proud of its national institutions. Many African countries, even ones poorer than DRC, have organized elections. If the DRC is united and determined to conduct this democratic exercise, I am confident it will overcome those difficulties to have successful election.

 

          I hope that the strong messages from this Council and the international community will reach the DRC’s political leaders. Japan reaffirms its full support to Special Representative Sidikou and MONUSCO.

 

          Thank you, Mr. President.