Tracking opponents in the DRC: A tense climate as the elections approach
As elections approach in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the regime’s hunt for opponents is raising serious concerns about the country’s political stability. Professor Gabriel Banza Malale, professor of constitutional law and specialist in geopolitical issues, warns of the harmful consequences of these actions on the pre-election climate.
In an interview with POLITICO.CD, Professor Banza Malale points out that the hunt for opponents, marked by searches, arrests and trials, only worsens the tensions already present. He describes it as a “witch hunt” against those who do not share the same political philosophy as the regime in place.
According to the political analyst, the next elections look bad, with an opposition, in particular the FCC (Common Front for Congo), which refuses to participate because of various preconditions, such as the recomposition of the CENI (National Electoral Commission Independent) and the Constitutional Court.
In addition, Professor Banza Malale draws the attention of President Félix Tshisekedi to the importance of monitoring those around him. He claims that some of his collaborators work more to undermine his image than to help him. He thus calls on the Head of State to exercise his authority and to take disciplinary measures against those who commit serious professional misconduct.
For the expert in constitutional law, it is essential that Félix Tshisekedi dissociates himself from the slippages of some of his collaborators and imposes his authority to establish a climate conducive to serenity and the fulfillment of his mandate.
In addition, Professor Banza Malale reacts to President Tshisekedi’s recent statement on his desire to attack any Congolese who endanger the security and stability of the country. He emphasizes that this is an expression of human feelings and should not be taken seriously for mere subsidiary details.
Finally, concerning the tensions between the Catholic Church and the State, Professor Banza Malale considers that this is one of the difficulties that all the authorities who have managed the Congo have faced. He encourages the authorities to show tenderness and to respect the basic principles to move forward in the management of the country.
In conclusion, the hunt for opponents and the excesses of certain collaborators of President Félix Tshisekedi are creating a tense pre-electoral climate in the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is essential that measures be taken to ease tensions and ensure peaceful and democratic elections