Chisekedi Sworn in as President of Congo for a Second Term

The President of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Felix Chisekedi, was sworn in today, Saturday, for a second five-year term after securing a landslide victory that his opponents refuse to acknowledge, alleging widespread irregularities during the general elections held in December. Authorities admitted to some issues but denied claims that votes were stolen. This intense dispute reflects previous electoral conflicts that fueled unrest in the Congo and led to protests in two cities in the eastern part of the country. Chisekedi took the oath in a stadium in the capital, Kinshasa, filled with supporters waving small flags, as well as government officials, African heads of state, and foreign envoys from countries including the United States, China, and France. In his speech, Chisekedi expressed awareness of people's hopes for improved living conditions and economic opportunities. Approximately 62% of the 100 million residents of Congo live on less than one dollar a day.