Kabila sworn in as Congo’s freely elected president

CONGO inaugurated Joseph Kabila as its first freely elected president in more than four decades yesterday, installing a rebel leader’s son who ushered in a plan to end years of fighting to help the country take a place among the world’s democracies.

Kabila, 35, was sworn in by the Supreme Court outside the presidential palace with thousands of onlookers shading themselves from the sun under umbrellas in the national colours of blue, red and yellow.

Kabila took his oath after a series of prayers from different faiths — Muslim, Christian and the indigenous Kimbanguist Church.

“This moment marks the beginning of a new era that must bring well-being and development to Congo’s people,” Kabila said. “I see a Congo where the people are always able to work.”

Rich in cobalt, diamonds, copper, gold and other minerals, Congo gained independence from Belgium in 1960 and was ruled for 32 years by Mobutu Sese Seko, a dictator who plundered the nation’s wealth, pocketing billions. Kabila’s father helped depose Mobutu, but was then assassinated, leaving his son in power.

The younger Kabila signed peace accords to end 1998-2002 wars that drew in the armies of at least six countries, and established the national-unity government he heads. Since then, the vast country has been trying to organise elections and progress to a democratic government, but this has been hampered by delays and continued fighting.

Kabila won a close October election against Jean-Pierre Bemba, a former warlord and one of four transitional vice presidents.

Bemba had contested the results and was not present at the inauguration. In his speech, Kabila confirmed the right of political opponents to organise under Congo’s constitution.