Mediator requests over US $2 million

The newly-appointed mediator for the inter-Congolese national dialogue, former Botswanan president Ketumile Masire, has asked for a preliminary budget of about US $2.7 million for his mission as facilitator. According to Botswanan radio, he told a donors’ meeting that the funds would facilitate a new political dispensation in the country. He said the amount would be used for a first round of negotiations, consultations with parties, the facilitation team and for travel. It would also go towards a daily subsistence allowance for delegates, their travel expenses and servicing of the mission. Masire added that the negotiations are expected to last one month, comprising 150 representatives from all parties.