Title: Dynamics of women candidates in the DRC: a call to respect parity on the electoral lists
Introduction :
The issue of women’s representation in politics is a major issue in many countries. In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the organization Dynamique des femmes candidates (DYNAFEC) campaigns for better political inclusion of women in the electoral process. While the Offices for the reception and processing of applications have opened their doors, DYNAFEC is encountering difficulties in setting up joint electoral lists. This article highlights the challenges faced by women candidates in the DRC and calls for mobilization to guarantee real female representation on electoral lists.
The list of potential candidates:
DYNAFEC has drawn up a directory of potential women candidates for the 2023 elections. This directory has been submitted to the Ministry of Gender and international partners such as Monusco and UN Women. It aims to highlight the women of the party who aspire to a candidacy and to request their technical support to prepare them for the electoral process.
The challenge of parity on the electoral lists:
Unfortunately, many political parties in the DRC do not yet seem ready to respect article 13 of the electoral law, which imposes equal representation of women on electoral lists. DYNAFEC has contacted nearly 400 potential female candidates, but has not yet received confirmation from their parties. This uncertainty and anxiety put women candidates in an awkward position, with some not even knowing if they will be considered on the electoral lists.
A call to action:
Faced with this situation, DYNAFEC is calling for general mobilization. It calls on organizations defending women’s rights, donors, the First Lady and the Head of State to intervene to encourage political parties to submit joint lists. It is essential to ensure that women’s voices are heard and that their skills are fully recognized in the electoral process.
Conclusion :
The issue of women’s representation in politics is of crucial importance to ensure genuine democracy and balanced decision-making. In the DRC, DYNAFEC plays an important role in lobbying for greater inclusion of women in the electoral process. Faced with the obstacles encountered, it is crucial that mobilization be stepped up and that concrete measures be taken to guarantee equal representation on the electoral lists. The future of democracy in the DRC depends on the participation and contribution of women in the political life of the country