The evolution of the local territorial development program in DR Congo: between hopes and challenges
The situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) continues to raise concerns, particularly with regard to the development of the territories. Amid a deteriorating political and security situation, the Reverend David Malloy, Bishop of Rockford and Chairman of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on International Justice and Peace, expressed concern over to the situation in the DRC.
The Congolese government is accused of failing to stem violence in the east of the country, to ensure an independent audit of electoral lists and to end political violence against opposition candidates. In response to these concerns, the National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO) has called for peaceful action to counter what it perceives as a failed election.
Rev. Malloy urges US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to take these warning signs seriously and act quickly to ensure a free, fair and credible election in the DRC. It also proposes collaboration between CENCO-ECC and other civil society organizations to defend democratic values in the country.
In the DRC, four months before the next elections scheduled for December 20, 2023, tension is mounting between the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) and the opposition. The CENCO and the Congolese Catholic Church accuse the CENI of preparing an electoral fraud by refusing in particular an independent audit of the electoral lists. For its part, the CENI accuses the opposition of wanting to block the electoral machine.
This situation highlights the challenges facing the electoral process in the DRC. It is crucial to guarantee the transparency and integrity of the elections in order to preserve the stability of the country. The international community, particularly the United States, is called upon to play an active role in supporting a fair and equitable electoral process in the DRC.
It is important to emphasize that the elections in the DRC have important repercussions on the stability and development of the country. Free and credible elections are essential to guarantee democratic governance and promote the socio-economic development of Congolese territories.
Despite the challenges faced, it is essential to maintain hope and continue to support efforts to promote democracy and development in the DRC. Collaboration between national and international actors, including civil society organizations, is crucial to creating an environment conducive to the holding of transparent and democratic elections.
In conclusion, the situation in the DRC remains worrying, in particular with regard to the electoral process. It is essential that all stakeholders commit to ensuring free, fair and credible elections