Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Africa, issued the following statement on Friday:

“I am watching closely the return of opposition leader Moise Katumbi to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, planned for Monday, May 20, as it is a barometer indicating the extent of the DRC’s democratic transition. 

“President Felix Tshisekedi deserves high praise for his commitment to opening the political space in the DRC and allowing Mr. Katumbi to return. Mr. Katumbi must be accorded his full rights under the DRC Constitution without threat of obstruction or harm. I encourage the State Department to use all available resources to ensure his peaceful and safe return.