Denis Kadima’s invitation to Joseph Kabila angers Kabilists
The President of the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI), Denis Kadima, recently sent an invitation to the former President of the Republic and senator for life Joseph Kabila Kabange as part of discussions around the ongoing electoral process. However, the move angered Kabila supporters within the Common Front for Congo (FCC), who were quick to voice their displeasure on social media.
The FCC Kabilists consider this invitation as a provocation on the part of Denis Kadima. According to them, the president of the CENI does not have the necessary authority to convene such a meeting. They point out that it is up to the FCC president, Raymond Tshibanda, or the representative of the People’s Party for Reconstruction and Democracy (PPRD), Emmanuel Ramazani Shadary, to represent the FCC in these discussions. Some even go so far as to question the legitimacy of Denis Kadima as head of the CENI, believing that he arrived at this position opportunistically.
The reactions of the Kabilists are not limited to criticism of Denis Kadima. Some also denounce a defect in the procedure for sending the invitation letter to Joseph Kabila. According to Ferdinand Kambere, secretary general of the PPRD, the correspondence should have been addressed to Raymond Tshibanda and not to Kabila himself.
This invitation from Denis Kadima to Joseph Kabila is perceived by the Kabilists as one more provocation in a context where they are calling for a recomposition of the CENI and the Constitutional Court. While the international community, represented by diplomats from the European Union, already seemed to show some skepticism about the ongoing electoral process, these new tensions between Congolese political actors risk reinforcing doubts about the credibility of these elections.
It is obvious that Denis Kadima was not well advised when drafting this letter of invitation. Instead of contributing to a constructive dialogue, this initiative has further exacerbated tensions between the various stakeholders. It is crucial that Congolese political actors find common ground and can discuss in an open and inclusive manner in order to guarantee fair and transparent elections.
Unfortunately, for the moment, the anger of the kabilists seems to dominate the debate, jeopardizing any consensus and compromise necessary for a serene political advance. It is essential that all parties concerned show responsibility and work together to find solutions in order to guarantee stability and democracy in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.