KINSHASA, Democratic Republic of Congo — America’s top diplomat on Wednesday was hoping to showcase the potential for democracy and climate action here in one of Africa’s largest countries. But backsliding reality got in the way.
Within hours of U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken’s arrival in the Democratic Republic of Congo — as he repeatedly urged free, fair and “on time” presidential elections next year — its government arrested a key opposition leader.
Forced to depart from his talking points, Blinken acknowledged what he called a “setback,” noting that he was “concerned for any steps taken that could actually reduce political space.” Blinken said he would raise the matter with the Congolese government and ask for an explanation.
