Despite recognising concerns over the election, regional and world powers led by South Africa quickly coalesced behind Tshisekedi in hopes of preventing greater instability. Martin Fayulu, a former oil executive considered a favourite, alleged widespread fraud and accused Tshisekedi of collaborating with outgoing president Joseph Kabila. By AFPMore by this AuthorWASHINGTONThe United States has said it will refuse visas to the Democratic Republic of Congo's election chief and top judge on charges that they undermined long-awaited presidential polls. ELECTION PROCESSThe United States said it would refuse visas to five senior figures as well as their immediate family members over "involvement in significant corruption relating to the election process." The United States and other international players had been closely watching the December 30 election, which marked the first peaceful transfer of power in sub-Saharan Africa's most vast country since independence from Belgium in 1960.

Source: Daily Nation February 23, 2019 13:41 UTC