The elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in December 2023 are attracting the interest of the international community, and the European Union (EU) is committed to supporting the country on the path to competitive, peaceful, inclusive and transparent. In a statement, the EU recognizes the work of the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) while stressing the importance of responding to the criticisms and concerns expressed by the political opposition and civil society.
The EU therefore calls on all stakeholders in the DRC to work together to ensure fully inclusive and democratic elections. Freedom of expression, of the media, of assembly, of association and of movement are considered essential to guarantee the integrity of the electoral process. Excessive or disproportionate use of force in response to peaceful protests or arbitrary detentions is strongly condemned.
Furthermore, the EU calls on Congolese political actors to expressly condemn hate speech and xenophobia, and to oppose any action aimed at denigrating an ethnic group, a minority or a religious community. Division based on ethnicity, religion, language, region or origin will not be tolerated.
This EU statement underlines the importance of the elections in the DRC and the commitment of the international community to support the democratic process in the country. It calls for transparency, inclusion and respect for human rights and democratic principles throughout the electoral process.
The elections in the DRC in December 2023 represent a crucial moment for the country and for the consolidation of democracy and stability in Central Africa. The EU, together with other partners, stands ready to accompany the DRC in this decisive period and to support the holding of free and fair elections