Title: The transparency and inclusion of the electoral process in the DRC, a crucial issue for peace and stability
Introduction :
The National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO) and the Church of Christ in Congo (ECC) have recently expressed their desire to promote transparency and inclusion in the electoral process in the Democratic Republic of Congo. In a joint memorandum, the CENCO-ECC Electoral Observation Mission (EOM) highlighted the importance of these principles to ensure peace and stability before, during and after the upcoming elections.
Audit of the electoral file:
One of the major actions planned by the electoral observation mission is the audit of the electoral register. This approach aims to restore the confidence of all actors in the electoral process by ensuring its integrity. The aim is to ensure that only legally eligible citizens participate in elections, thereby eliminating the risk of fraud and manipulation.
Confrontation of CENI data:
In addition to the audit of the electoral register, the electoral observation mission also plans to compare the data of the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) at the time of their publication. This confrontation will be done using the methodology of election observation based on a sample, called “Sample Based Observation” (SBO). This approach will make it possible to independently verify the official election results and ensure their accuracy.
Collaboration with the CENI:
The MOE wishes to work in close collaboration with the CENI in order to guarantee the transparency of the process. It proposes to open its call center to observers from the CENI and political parties, thus allowing them to follow and observe the progress of the electoral operations. In addition, the MOE undertakes to share its observation report with the CENI before making it public, in order to allow a comparison of the data and to guarantee the acceptance of the results by all the actors.
Protocol of agreement :
To formalize their collaboration, the CENCO-ECC electoral observation mission proposes the establishment of a Memorandum of Understanding. This document would seal the mutual commitment to work together to ensure free, fair and transparent elections in the DRC.
Conclusion :
The transparency and inclusiveness of the electoral process in the Democratic Republic of Congo are crucial issues for the peace and stability of the country. The CENCO-ECC electoral observation mission implements concrete actions such as the audit of the electoral register and the confrontation of CENI data, with the aim of restoring the confidence of all the actors. By working in collaboration with the CENI and reporting transparently, this mission helps ensure democratic and legitimate elections in the DRC.