[wanabidii] Africa: Referendum on a New Constitution in Republic of Congo

You are subscribed to Africa for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Africa: Referendum on a New Constitution in Republic of Congo 10/06/2015 08:42 PM EDT Referendum on a New Constitution in Republic of Congo Press Statement Mark C. Toner Deputy Department Spokesperson Washington, DC October 6, 2015 The United States notes with concern the decision by Republic of Congo President Denis Sassou N’Guesso to hold a referendum on a new constitution that would overcome existing term limits and permit him to run again for president after the end of his term in 2016. As President Obama stated in his address at the African Union, Nelson Mandela and George Washington “forged a lasting legacy not only because of what they did in office, but because they were willing to leave office and transfer power peacefully.” President Obama underscored that, “when a leader tries to change the rules in the middle of the game just to stay in office, it risks instability and strife – as we’ve seen in Burundi. And this is often just a first step down a perilous path.” We reiterate that regular, peaceful, democratic leadership transitions provide a dynamic and healthy mechanism for citizens to hold political leaders accountable for their governance and foster long-term stability. No democracy is well-served when its leader alters its constitution for personal or political gain. The Office of Website Management, Bureau of Public Affairs, manages this site as a portal for information from the U.S. State Department. External links to other Internet sites should not be construed as an endorsement of the views or privacy policies contained therein. Stay connected with the State Department:   External links found in this content or on Department of State websites that go to other non-Department websites should not be construed as an endorsement of the views or privacy policies contained therein.  Update your subscriptions, modify your password or email address, or stop subscriptions at any time on your Subscriber Preferences Page. You will need to use your email address to log in. If you have questions or problems with the subscription service, please visit subscriberhelp.govdelivery.com. This service is provided to you at no charge by U.S. Department of State. This email was sent to wanabidii@googlegroups.com using GovDelivery, on behalf of: U.S. Department of State · 2201 C Street NW · Washington, DC 20520

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