The Forum for Democratic Change has welcomed the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), in the East African Community (EAC), saying it’s an economic opportunity which will boost the balance of trade.
DR Congo on March 29, officially joined the EAC bloc becoming the 7th member partner.
Speaking at a press conference held Monday 4, at the FDC headquarters, the FDC Party President, Patrick Amuriat Oboi said that Dr Congo With a total of 92 plus million people coming on board Ugandan products have a potential market to Uganda’s products.
“This is an economic opportunity to boost our balance of trade, Job opportunities would be open for the many East Africans and Congolese thus fostering unity and livelihoods prosperity,” he noted.
Adding, “We welcome the DRC to the EAC despite the burdens it brings along.”
Amuriat advised that Dr Congo joining EAC, should be an opportunity for the EAC to embrace peace in the region.
“DRC has for long accused Rwanda of backing M23 rebels that causing the trouble; Uganda too has its own responsibility for the insecurity in the DRC to sort out,” he said.
Amuriat said the volatile Political situation in DRC especially the Eastern Region because of the absence of the government, the militia takes advantage and reeks to the population leaving hundreds dead and many scores of refugees influx into Uganda, noting that the EAC partnership could be a blessing in disguise both militarily and political solution thusly peace and tranquillity in the region.
“As the FDC ,we urge the member states to stand ground and workout a proper transition holistic plan for the DRC with all its attendant security challenges political baggage before signing the final Ascension Treaty.” Amuriat said.