Title of the article: “The challenges of convening the electorate in DR Congo for the elections of provincial deputies and municipal councillors”
Introduction :
In a political context marked by electoral stakes, the Democratic Republic of Congo is facing a major new challenge: summoning the electorate for the elections of provincial deputies and municipal councillors. This event is of particular importance, as it is the first opportunity for Congolese voters to choose their representatives at the provincial and communal level in more than 30 years. The Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) plays a key role in the organization of these elections and actively encourages the participation of young people and women, while ensuring that the admissibility threshold is respected.
Encourage the participation of young people and women:
Aware of the importance of balanced representation and diversity within political bodies, the CENI emphasizes encouraging the participation of young people and women in these elections. It calls on political parties to promote the presence of women on the electoral lists, by setting up incentive measures such as exemption from application fees for lists comprising at least 50% of women. This initiative aims to promote gender parity and reduce the influence of money in Congolese politics.
The admissibility threshold as a selection criterion:
In the candidate selection process, the CENI reminds political parties of the importance of taking into account the admissibility threshold. This criterion, which applies both to the election of provincial deputies and that of municipal councillors, aims to guarantee the representativeness of the candidates. Political parties must therefore present lists that respect this threshold, in order to guarantee a diversity of opinions and a fair representation of different political sensitivities.
An unprecedented enthusiasm for political participation:
Since the convocation of the electorate for the national deputation in June 2023, the CENI has faced a massive influx of candidates. No fewer than 25,000 applications were submitted, an average of 50 applications per seat. This remarkable rate testifies to the enthusiasm of the Congolese for political participation and the desire to make their voices heard.
Concerns about intolerance and violence:
Despite this dynamic of participation, the CENI also expresses its concern at the rise in intolerance and violence observed in recent days. Incidents and tensions have been reported, which could potentially compromise the smooth running of the electoral campaign. The CENI therefore calls for the responsibility and restraint of all political actors, in order to preserve a climate conducive to free and transparent elections..
Conclusion :
The convocation of the electorate in DR Congo for the elections of provincial deputies and municipal councilors constitutes a key moment in the political life of the country. The efforts of the CENI to encourage the participation of young people and women, as well as respect for the admissibility threshold, testify to the desire to guarantee increased representativeness and a diversity of opinions within political bodies. However, the existence of tensions and acts of intolerance underlines the need for a peaceful and respectful climate to ensure the smooth running of these crucial elections for the future of Congolese democracy