The House of Elections: An essential place for democracy
On August 23, 2023, the President of the National Electoral Commission (CENI) of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Denis Kadima Kazadi, inaugurated the House of Elections in Kinshasa. Located on Kolwezi Avenue in the commune of Gombe, this space was designed to facilitate exchanges and interactions between the CENI and citizens.
During the inauguration ceremony, Denis Kadima underlined the importance of this space as a crossroads of information and a place of exchange. The House of Elections aims to build transparency and trust between the CENI, the media, civil society organizations and political parties. It also offers easy access to information for all citizens wishing to learn about the electoral process.
Denis Kadima also announced that the House of Elections will soon welcome representatives of community radios. This initiative aims to provide the local media with as much information as possible on the upcoming elections, as well as on the legal framework and the innovations introduced in the electoral process. The objective is to guarantee sufficient information to allow listeners to make an informed choice during the next elections.
The House of Elections is intended to be an open and friendly space, where each citizen can feel at ease and find the answers to their questions. The reception agents will be available to provide all the necessary information. Training will also be organized for the media, civil society organizations and political parties in order to strengthen their understanding of the electoral process and their ability to inform their respective audiences.
This CENI initiative is welcomed by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and by the financial partners who have supported the realization of this project. Beyond the material aspect of the House of Elections, it is above all the framework for constructive dialogue that it offers with all the actors involved in the electoral process that is valued.
In conclusion, the House of Elections in Kinshasa marks an important step forward for democracy in the DRC. It promotes inclusiveness, transparency and access to information for all citizens. This space for dialogue and sharing will help build trust between the CENI, the media and civil society actors, and will contribute to freer and fair elections