Congo’s President Is Refusing to Step Down, Raising Fears of Bloodshed

There are many ways for political leaders to cling to power after the end of their term. They can rig elections, push through constitutional amendments, call in the army or put a referendum to the people. Or, as in the case of the Democratic Republic of Congo, there is the option of doing absolutely nothing at all.

Despite the fact that Joseph Kabila’s second and final term as president was due to end in December, his government failed to prepare by holding presidential polls in time.