The Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is determined to advance the general elections despite opposition challenges. The convocation of the electorate for the national deputation is scheduled for June 25, 2023, in accordance with the electoral calendar made public on November 26, 2022.
According to the CENI rapporteur, Patricia Nseya, the Office for the Reception and Processing of Applications (BRTC) will be open and operational from June 26 to July 15, 2023, to allow candidates to submit their applications.
However, the CENI recalls that to be a candidate in the legislative elections, one must be of Congolese nationality, be at least 25 years old, enjoy their civil and political rights and have a diploma of higher education or university or justify professional experience. five years in the political, administrative or socio-economic field.
In addition, the CENI invites political parties and legally constituted political groups as well as independent candidates to already prepare their candidacy files in accordance with the provisions of the articles of the Electoral Law.
These legislative elections are crucial for the DRC, as they will renew the members of its parliament and strengthen democracy. However, the Congolese opposition continues to contest the electoral process, fearing irregularities and a lack of transparency.
In this tense context, it is important to emphasize that the holding of free, fair and credible elections is a fundamental step to guarantee political stability and development in the DRC. Hope that the electoral authorities will respect the democratic principles of transparency and citizen participation to ensure the integrity of the electoral process