The European Union (EU) recently committed to supporting the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on the way to competitive, peaceful, inclusive and transparent elections scheduled for December 2023. In this regard, the EU recognizes the work undertaken by the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) while taking into account the criticisms and concerns expressed by opposition political parties and civil society organizations.
With a view to consolidating democracy and stabilizing the DRC, the EU calls on the CENI and all stakeholders to work together to guarantee fully inclusive, free, transparent and peaceful elections. This approach requires the preservation of fundamental freedoms such as freedom of expression, media, assembly, association and movement. The excessive or disproportionate use of force in response to peaceful demonstrations or arbitrary detentions is also condemned, as it undermines the integrity of the electoral process.
At the same time, the EU urges all Congolese political actors to expressly condemn hate speech and xenophobia at all levels, as well as to oppose any action or attitude aimed at denigrating an ethnic group, a minority or a community religious. It is essential that those who incite or resort to violence be held accountable. Furthermore, any speech likely to increase the risk of inter-ethnic violence must be condemned. Attempts to divide based on ethnic, religious, linguistic, regional or origin criteria will not be tolerated.
The EU, through this declaration, reaffirms its support for the holding of democratic and transparent elections in the DRC while stressing the importance of the preservation of fundamental rights and national unity. It is committed to working together with other partners sharing the same values to support the DRC on the path to democracy and stability. The holding of competitive, peaceful, inclusive and transparent elections in December 2023 is essential for the future of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and its people.
In conclusion, the EU encourages the DRC to follow the path of democratic and transparent elections, preserving fundamental freedoms and condemning any hate or divisive speech. The commitment of the EU and other international partners is essential to support the DRC in this crucial step for the future of the country