US Vows Sanctions for Violence During Elections in Democratic Republic of Congo

Washington pledged to impose sanctions on those responsible for violence during upcoming elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

WASHINGTON (Sputnik) — The United States will impose sanctions on those responsible for violence during upcoming elections and transition of power in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the US Department of State said in a press release on Friday.

"The United States calls on all sides to reject violence and inflammatory rhetoric during this transition and believes that any individuals responsible for perpetrating violence or repression, or for inciting imminent violence, should be held accountable," the release stated. "We remain ready to impose additional targeted sanctions on such perpetrators."

The release noted that several groups are planning demonstrations in the coming months, and the DRC government must respect freedom of expression and the right to peacefully assemble under both its constitution and international law.

The release also said the United States supports a dialogue that prioritizes holding presidential elections as soon as possible so there can be a peaceful transition of political power.