The Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) of the Democratic Republic of the Congo has recently taken steps to ensure inclusiveness and fairness in the upcoming elections. For the sake of transparency, the CENI has decided to extend the period for submitting candidacies to the provincial deputy. In addition, the election of municipal councilors has been postponed in certain territorial entities where conflicts related to customary power and administrative delimitation arise.
This CENI decision aims to ensure the participation of all stakeholders in the planned elections. Thus, in an official press release, the CENI specified that only the municipalities located in the provincial capitals will see their election of municipal councilors maintained on December 20, 2023. This will make it possible to solve the specific problems related to customary power and the administrative organization in other municipalities.
The CENI also wanted to reassure independent candidates, as well as political parties and groups that have already paid their deposit for the municipalities not concerned. According to the Commission, these guarantees will be taken into account during the election of municipal councilors scheduled for 2024 in the remaining municipalities. A new calendar will be established and published soon, in order to allow adequate planning for these postponed elections.
This decision by the CENI demonstrates its desire to guarantee fair and inclusive elections for all. By postponing certain elections in order to solve specific regional problems, the Commission seeks to establish a transparent and consensual electoral process. This will allow citizens to actively participate in choosing their local and provincial representatives, while ensuring adequate representation of all groups and regions of the country.
It is important to emphasize that this decision by the CENI is part of a broader context of preparations for the elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo. After several years of reforms, the country is seeking to consolidate its democratic process and strengthen citizens’ confidence in the electoral system. The CENI’s efforts to ensure equity and inclusiveness are essential steps towards achieving this goal.
In conclusion, the decision of the Independent National Electoral Commission to extend the period for submitting candidacies for provincial deputies and to postpone the election of municipal councilors in certain territorial entities demonstrates its commitment to fair and inclusive elections in the Democratic Republic of the congo. By taking into account the specific problems encountered in certain regions, the CENI seeks to guarantee the participation of all stakeholders in the electoral process.. These measures will contribute to strengthening democracy and citizens’ confidence in the country’s electoral system