Congo Ruling Coalition Wins Legislative Majority, Constraining President-Elect

According to Reuters, outgoing Democratic Republic of Congo President Joseph Kabila’s ruling coalition won a majority in legislative elections, despite opposition leader Felix Tshisekedi’s win in the presidential vote the same day. The result will undercut Tshisekedi’s ability to deliver on campaign promises to make a break with the 18-year Kabila era. It may also fuel suspicion that his victory, announced on Thursday, came through a backroom deal to preserve Kabila's influence and power.