Political discussions continue to rage in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). After meetings with opposition leaders and Adolph Muzito, President of the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI), Denis Kadima continued his efforts by inviting former President Joseph Kabila to participate in the discussions. The objective of these meetings is to analyze in detail the current electoral process and to propose solutions.
Denis Kadima, in his correspondence to Joseph Kabila, points out that he has already made contact with other opposition political leaders for the same purpose. He thus wants to set up a constructive and inclusive dialogue to guarantee a transparent and fair electoral process.
The Front Commun pour le Congo (FCC), the political party of Joseph Kabila, has previously expressed its willingness to participate in the elections within the constitutional deadlines. However, the FCC has set certain conditions, including the establishment of a consensual CENI leadership team and the appointment of members duly chosen by their respective components. They also insist on the need for an independent Constitutional Court and an inclusive electoral law guaranteeing transparency and equal opportunities for all candidates.
The FCC believes that the voter registration process has been marred by fraud, amateurism, and a distinct lack of credible external auditing, rendering the process unreliable. They point to irregularities such as the enrollment of minors and the fact that some people have several voter cards.
Faced with these concerns, the FCC decided not to accompany President Félix Tshisekedi in what they consider to be an electoral hold-up. They declared that they would not participate in elections which they consider fraudulent and chaotic, with dramatic consequences for the future of democracy and the Republic.
It remains to be seen whether these discussions between Denis Kadima and Joseph Kabila will help find common ground and guarantee free and transparent elections in the DRC. The electoral process is crucial for the future of the country, and it is important that all stakeholders engage in constructive dialogue to enable a balanced democracy that respects fundamental principles.