The European Union calls for peaceful and inclusive elections in the DRC: guaranteeing democracy and stability
In a statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on Friday 7 July, the EU expressed its desire to see the Democratic Republic of Congo organize inclusive, free, transparent and peaceful elections. She also encouraged the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) and all stakeholders to work together in this direction.
According to the EU, the holding of quality elections is essential for the consolidation of democracy and stability in the DRC. It stresses the importance of guaranteeing the full integrity of the electoral process, which notably implies freedom of expression, of the media, of assembly, of association and of movement. It warns against excessive or disproportionate use of force in response to peaceful protests or arbitrary detentions.
This statement comes in a tense context in the DRC, marked by violent crackdowns during opposition marches and mass arrests of politicians, civil society activists, journalists and lawyers. This crackdown has drawn strong criticism from the Congolese opposition and the international community.
The EU recognizes the work carried out by the CENI, but wishes to take into account the criticisms and concerns expressed by opposition political parties and civil society organisations. It underlines the need to respond to them urgently.
The ongoing electoral process in the DRC is giving rise to disagreements among stakeholders, particularly regarding the reliability of the electoral register. Despite these differences, the CENI continues to meet with political and social actors with the aim of finding a consensus and guaranteeing credible, transparent, inclusive and peaceful elections.
In this perspective, the CENI has already met with the opposition quartet, made up of Matata Ponyo, Delly Sesanga, Martin Fayulu and Moïse Katumbi, to discuss the problems related to the organization of the elections. If progress has been made, particularly on the display of voters lists, the question of the external audit of the electoral register remains unresolved, an important requirement for the opposition.
At the same time, the CENI also wishes to meet with former President Joseph Kabila as part of these consultations, in order to include all stakeholders in the process.
The DRC faces many challenges to ensure the smooth running of elections and guarantee democracy and stability. The involvement of the international community, in particular the European Union, is essential to support the country in this democratic transition and to ensure respect for fundamental rights.. By supporting inclusive and peaceful elections, the DRC can pave the way for a period of stability and development for the country and its people