Highlighting the public outcry aginst the of protest of Kabila the current president in Democratic Republic of Congo, a social media shutdown has been authorized. Authorities have ordered the blocking of social networking websites including Facebook and Twitter, as well as Skype,  WhatsApp, before President Joseph Kabila’s mandate expires at midnight on Sunday.

According to Aljazeera, “No elections have been organized and the opposition accuses him of seeking to retain power. Under a controversial ruling by the Constitutional Court, Kabila may remain in office beyond the end of his mandate. Kabila’s failure to step aside has led to protests in which dozens have been killed. On Monday, the European Union imposed travel bans and asset freezes on seven top DRC security officials because of  a disproportionate use of force. The opposition has warned of nationwide protests from Monday until Kabila quits office. But rallies are on hold while the Roman Catholic Church mediates last-ditch negotiations to bring about a political transition towards elections.”