Congo's justice minister says unity government possible

FILE- In this Thursday, June 30, 2016 file photo, Congolese President Joseph Kabila, center, waves as he and others celebrate the Democratic Republic of Congo, DRC, independence in Kindu, Congo. Congo's ruling party is proposing an interim unity government with the opposition as an election set for November, 2016, now seems nearly impossible, though President Joseph Kabila would remain in charge, the country's justice minister said. (AP Photo/John Bompengo, File) (The Associated Press)

KINSHASA, Congo – Congo's justice minister says the ruling party and opposition could share power in an interim government now that it's clear the November presidential election won't take place on time.

The development came as the parties announced Wednesday they had agreed to hold the presidential and legislative elections on the same date, though that date has not been set.

The constitution allows incumbent President Joseph Kabila to stay in power beyond his mandate if there's no election, though he is technically ineligible to seek a third term in office. His term ends in December.

Many fear an election delay will lead to unrest.

Justice Minister Alexis Thambwe Mwamba says the ruling party and opposition party should share power.

But at least one opposition figure, Vital Kamerhe, says nothing has been finalized.