US deploys troops to Gabon fearing violence could erupt in DRC

United States military has deployed about eighty troops in Gabon as a precautionary measure to protect its citizens and diplomatic facilities if violence breaks in Kinshasa, capital city of neighboring Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

President Trump told to Congress Friday that the first of these arrived on January 2 and they were equipped appropriately and were supported by military aircraft.

DRC went into polls on December 30. It was delayed by about two years from the first scheduled date to elect successor of President Joseph Kabila to bring to end his 18 years presidentship.

Trump added that additional troops would be deployed, if required, to Gabon or DRC or Republic of Congo and they will be stationed until the situation stabilizes.

Results of the polls are expected to be released on Sunday, but it may be delayed as the arrival of tally sheets is slow.

The DRC government claims polls were fair and smooth, but observers as well as opposition argue there were serious irregularities.

Observers add disputed result may lead to unrest in the country as it was seen in the 2006 and 2011 elections.

London-based Innovation Task Force CEO Al Kitenge said for past forty years violence has been seen in DRC and so it is to be worried that same may be seen again in Kinshasa.

He added, “The people most at risk in such a case are civilians and we hope everything can be done to avoid that.”