Corneille Nangaa, former president of the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) and leader of the political party “Action for the Dignity of Congo and its people” (ADCP), is currently in exile and raises concerns about his safety. In a recent interview with RFI, he strongly criticized the government in place and expressed his concerns about the political situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Nangaa says steps must be taken to end Felix Tshisekedi’s mandate, seeing his administration as a “parenthesis” that must quickly close. He sharply criticizes the management of national affairs, pointing out the lightness and reckless decisions taken in matters of security. According to him, if this approach persists, the Congo risks being lost. Nangaa also questions the management of security in the country, noting the “hazardous” decisions taken without any real planning.
He also states that he has not felt safe for several months and that his custody has been taken away from him, despite his legal rights. He links these events to the circumstances surrounding the death of certain personalities, such as Kahimbi and Okende.
The former CENI president also criticizes the ongoing state of siege in the eastern provinces of the DRC, mentioning in particular the presumed presence of FDLR combatants within the Republican Guard. His statements were described as “extremely serious” by the Minister of Communication and the Media, Patrick Muyaya. Nangaa responded to these accusations by saying that his remarks were backed by evidence and that criticism of the government was an attempt to stifle truth and democracy.
It should be noted that Corneille Nangaa is currently under US sanctions. The US Treasury sanctioned him over allegations of “persistent corruption” linked to the December 2018 elections in the DRC. The sanctions also target other CENI officials. According to the US Treasury, Nangaa and his associates allegedly misappropriated CENI operational funds for personal and political gain, thus delaying the electoral process. Nangaa has always denied these accusations.
The political situation in the DRC remains tense and Nangaa’s statements raise questions about the country’s stability. The safety of the former CENI president is a matter of concern, and it is essential that the authorities take steps to ensure his protection and guarantee the safety of all political actors in the country. Political stability is a crucial element for the development and progress of the DRC, and it is necessary to strengthen dialogue and confidence between the different parties in order to achieve a peaceful and lasting solution