KINSHASA, Democratic Republic of Congo — Secretary of State John F. Kerry urged the president of the Democratic Republic of Congo on Sunday to respect his nation’s constitution and not run for another term in 2016.
There has been speculation among the political opposition that President Joseph Kabila might seek to have the Constitution amended so that he could run for a third term.
Kabila has been in office since 2001.
“Clearly, the United States believes that a country is strengthened, that people have respect for their nation and their government, when a constitutional process is properly implemented and upheld by that government,” Kerry said.
“He has an opportunity, which he understands, to be able to put the country on a continued path to democracy,” he added.
Kabila had no comment on Kerry’s appeal and has not said whether he might seek to have the constitution changed.
Kerry said the United States would contribute $30 million to help Congo hold elections.
Much of the money will be provided to nongovernmental organizations, but about $2 million will probably be provided to the nation’s electoral commission.
The secretary of state arrived here after visiting Ethiopia and South Sudan. He plans to finish his trip with talks in Angola with President José Eduardo dos Santos.
Kerry, who has promoted the importance of democratic values during a swing through Africa, met Sunday morning with Kabila at his white marble presidential palace to discuss political and security issues.