18 African leaders to attend DR Congo's president-elect inauguration

KINSHASA, Jan. 19 (Xtrafrica) -- The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is poised for a historic event as President-elect Felix Tshisekedi's inauguration approaches. Scheduled for this Saturday in Kinshasa, the ceremony is set to be a grand celebration with an unprecedented international presence.

Serge Tshibangu, the high representative of the president, has confirmed the attendance of eighteen African heads of state, signaling a significant moment of unity and cooperation within the continent. The ceremony will showcase Africa's solidarity, with leaders from South Africa, Angola, Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Equatorial Guinea, Chad, Republic of Congo, Burundi, Zambia, Gabon, Central African Republic, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Mozambique, Comoros, and Gambia joining the festivities.

In a reflection of the DRC's growing global stature, the event will also feature high-level delegations from across the world. Representatives from the White House, Belgium, China, Russia, Turkey, Lesotho, Serbia, the United Kingdom, Egypt, Japan, the European Union, Brazil, Singapore, and Norway will be present, underscoring the international community's interest in the DRC's political trajectory.

The Martyrs Stadium of Kinshasa, the venue for the inauguration, is set to open its doors to the public from 4 a.m. local time (0300 GMT). This accessibility highlights the Tshisekedi administration's commitment to inclusivity and public participation in this momentous event. President Tshisekedi's landslide victory in the December 20 general elections, where he secured 73.47% of the vote, is a testament to his widespread popularity and the public's confidence in his leadership for a second term.

This inauguration is not merely a ceremonial event; it marks a significant step in the DRC's journey towards stability and development. The diverse and high-profile nature of the international delegation attending the inauguration reinforces the importance of the DRC in global politics and signals widespread support for President Tshisekedi's leadership.

As the DRC enters this new chapter under President Tshisekedi, the world eagerly anticipates the nation's continued progress and prosperity. The inauguration serves as a beacon of hope and a symbol of the potential that lies ahead for the DRC.

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