The work of the forum of stakeholders in the electoral process in the Democratic Republic of Congo ended on Thursday, after three intense days of debates and proposals. The participants discussed the measures necessary to guarantee free, credible and transparent elections, while seeking to create a peaceful climate.
The closing day began with a panel moderated by Dany Ayida, Country Representative of the National Democratic Institute (NDI). Representatives of majority and opposition political parties discussed the involvement of parties in the electoral process and the resulting responsibilities.
Two other panels then took place, one on electoral disputes and the other on the state of progress of the next steps towards fair and transparent elections, with the participation of the President of the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) , Denis Kadima.
During his presentation, Denis Kadima addressed several sensitive issues, such as rumors around enrollment operations, the credibility of the electoral register and the constraints linked to the organization of elections. He also mentioned the meetings with the leaders of the opposition political parties and the opening of the Offices for the reception and processing of applications (BRTC).
The reactions of the participants were diverse. Some were satisfied with the answers given by the president of the CENI, considering that he was able to reassure as to the holding of the elections within the constitutional deadlines. Others, on the other hand, expressed their concerns and expressed their demands, particularly with regard to the audit of the electoral register and the recomposition of the CENI.
Civil society welcomed the organization of this forum and called for greater consideration of gender in the composition of political party lists.
In the end, this work has shed light on the issues and challenges related to the electoral process in the DRC. The recommendations made by the participants will certainly contribute to improving the transparency and credibility of the next elections, and to fostering a peaceful and inclusive climate.
This forum demonstrates the importance given to the participation of all stakeholders in the electoral process, and the desire to guarantee democratic and representative elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo