Title: The election of national deputies in the DRC: an extended deadline for submitting candidacies
Introduction :
The Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has announced the extension of the deadline for submitting nominations for the election of national deputies. Initially set from June 26 to July 15, the deadline was extended by 7 days, from July 16 to July 23, 2023. This decision was made due to the multiple challenges faced by stakeholders, such as the constitution of application and logistical difficulties. In this article, we will explore the reasons for this extension and the measures taken by the CENI to facilitate the application process.
The reasons for the extension:
According to the CENI, many political parties and groups have encountered difficulties in compiling their candidacy files. Among the main challenges they face are logistical obstacles, communication problems, as well as constraints related to flight schedules and the transmission of proof of payment of application fees. This situation led to a lack of enthusiasm during the first two weeks of the initial delay.
Measures taken by the CENI:
In order to facilitate the application process, the CENI suggested that candidates scan the required forms and send them electronically to their representatives present in each electoral district. This measure makes it possible to simplify administrative procedures while respecting the rules for the certification of academic titles. Thus, only academic titles will have to be submitted for certification.
The importance of this election:
The election of national deputies is of great importance for the DRC, because it will renew the parliamentary representation of the country. These deputies play an essential role in the elaboration and adoption of laws, as well as in the control of government action. It is therefore crucial that the electoral process be transparent, inclusive and respect democratic principles.
Conclusion :
The extension of the deadline for the submission of candidatures for the election of national deputies in the DRC testifies to the challenges faced by political actors. The CENI has taken steps to facilitate the filing process, including allowing the electronic submission of required forms. This election is of great importance for the DRC, and it is essential that all political actors can participate in this process in an equitable manner