The December 2023 election in the DRC is considered crucial for the future of the country, but the distribution of seats is problematic. Provincial MP Ngaruye Muhozi Emmanuel of North Kivu has raised concerns about the disenfranchisement of voters in Rutshuru and Masisi territories who are not yet registered. These territories are part of the regions victims of the Rwandan aggression.
At present, candidates from regions affected by these events are in a precarious situation. Running for political office without voters requires exceptional courage. The MP therefore recommends to the Head of State to redouble his efforts to bring peace to these regions to increase the chance of running for the supreme office for the second time. When the population of these areas will be enrolled in the electoral register, this will be an important step in the preparation of these crucial elections.
It is time for the government to take action to ensure that the right to vote is no longer a privilege reserved for certain citizens. More than ever, the people of the DRC must have confidence in their government and in their electoral system to guarantee the future stability of the country.