Title: Violence during the elections in the DRC: a growing concern for the CENI
Introduction :
The Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) expresses its concern about a growing climate of intolerance between the candidates for the presidential election of December 2023. The President of the CENI, Dénis Kadima, expresses his fears about a possible escalation of violence during the election campaign period. These concerns follow recent incidents that have involved members of different political parties.
A growing climate of intolerance:
Dénis Kadima underlines the climate of intolerance that is taking hold in the electoral process in the DRC. He cites the example of the attack on Delly Sessanga, president of the Envol party, by presumed members of the Union for Democracy and Social Progress (UDPS). He also refers to the attack on the installations of Adolphe Muzito’s Nouvel Élan party by supporters of Martin Fayulu. These acts of intolerance go against the democratic values advocated by Congolese society.
The concern of the CENI:
The CENI expresses its concern about the impact of intolerance between the candidates on the conduct of the electoral campaign. Dénis Kadima fears that this period will be marked by acts of violence, thus compromising the smooth running of the democratic process. He stresses the importance of preserving democratic values and calls on candidates to show mutual respect.
A worrying situation for democracy:
These recent incidents highlight the growing tensions within the Congolese political scene. They raise questions about the country’s ability to organize peaceful and transparent elections. Political violence risks hampering citizen participation and compromising the legitimacy of the next elected president.
Conclusion :
The CENI of the DRC expresses its concern at a growing climate of intolerance among the candidates for the presidential election of December 2023. The commission fears that this intolerance will translate into acts of violence during the electoral campaign. These recent incidents highlight the challenges the country faces in organizing democratic and peaceful elections