From Voice Of America via AllAfrica

Hollywood star Ben Affleck Wednesday called on President Barack Obama to directly engage with President Joseph Kabila of the Democratic Republic of Congo to encourage him to live up to his commitment to security reforms.

The actor and activist was appearing before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee to testify alongside Russell Feingold, the U.S special envoy for the Great Lakes region and Congo, and Roger Meece, former U.S ambassador to Congo.

The hearing, before the US Senate’s Foreign Relations Committee, came three months after M23, an eastern-DRC-based rebel group, announced it was ending its 19-month uprising against the Kinshasa government.

“If it were not for bold leadership by you, the U.S Congress, together with the Obama administration, Congo would not be at this important turning point,” said Affleck.

The star who is also the founder of Eastern Congo Initiative, a grant-making and advocacy organization working in Congo urged the Obama administration to play a greater role in the DRC’s future.

“I am also here today with an urgent message: Our work in DRC is not finished,” said Affleck. “We cannot risk diminished U.S leadership at a time when lasting peace and stability are within reach.”

Sen. John McCain said he found Affleck’s expertise credible and remarkable.

“Your credibility is really remarkable because of the depth of your commitment,” said McCain

Written by Edward Rwema | Read more at AllAfrica