In a context marked by a persistent crisis at all levels, the political situation in the DRC is of concern to civil society actors and citizen movements. In a memorandum recently made public, they express their concerns about the possibility of a climate of peace after the 2023 elections.
The observation is clear: despite the multiple calls for a consensus around the current electoral process, the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) continues to follow its own timetable, ignoring the recommendations of the stakeholders. This attitude challenges not only the national community, but also the international community.
Civil society actors, Catholic and Protestant lay people, as well as citizens’ movements are vigilant and attentive to the evolution of the situation. They therefore decided to launch a series of mass mobilization activities in line with their roadmap.
This mobilization aims to sensitize the population on the stakes of the electoral process and to encourage dialogue and the search for a consensus. It is about involving citizens in building a peaceful and democratic society.
It is essential, according to the signatories of the memorandum, to make the voice of the Congolese people heard and to ensure that the 2023 elections take place in a fair, transparent manner and in accordance with democratic rules.
The memorandum also stresses the importance of the participation of all political actors, opposition parties and civil society in the electoral process. This active participation will strengthen the legitimacy and credibility of the elections.
In conclusion, the memorandum warns against the consequences of an electoral process devoid of consensus and calls for citizen mobilization to guarantee free, fair and transparent elections in 2023