The article is based on current events in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and highlights the efforts of the European Union (EU) to support the country in its transition towards competitive, peaceful, inclusive and transparent elections in December 2023.
The EU recognizes the work carried out by the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) while taking into account the concerns expressed by opposition political parties and civil society organisations. In this context, the EU encourages all stakeholders to work together to ensure fully inclusive, free, transparent and peaceful elections.
The article also highlights the importance of freedom of expression, media, assembly, association and movement in the electoral process. The EU condemns any excessive or disproportionate use of force in response to peaceful protests or arbitrary detentions, stressing the incompatibility of such actions with the integrity of the electoral process.
Furthermore, the EU calls on Congolese political actors to explicitly condemn hate speech and xenophobia, and to oppose any action aimed at denigrating an ethnic group, a minority or a religious community. The EU insists that attempts at division based on ethnic, religious, linguistic, regional or origin criteria will be firmly rejected.
These EU statements aim to encourage democratization in the DRC and promote stability in the country. They stress the importance of respecting the fundamental principles of democracy and guaranteeing fair and transparent elections. By supporting the DRC in this process, the EU hopes to contribute to the consolidation of democracy and stability in the region.
In conclusion, the article highlights the commitment of the European Union to accompany the Democratic Republic of Congo on the way to competitive, peaceful, inclusive and transparent elections in December 2023. The EU calls on all stakeholders to work together and condemn hate speech and violence