Title: Political dialogue in the DRC: a promising option for inclusive and peaceful elections
Introduction :
In the current context of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), marked by upcoming elections and concerns about political and security stability, political dialogue presents itself as a promising option to promote inclusive, credible and peaceful elections. The Secular Coordinating Committee (CLC) and the 2018 Nobel Peace Prize winner, Denis Mukwege, proposed that political and social actors meet to discuss and find solutions to differences. Safi Kayungo Thérèse, vice-president of the Haut-Katanga civil society consultation framework, supports this initiative while stressing the importance of respecting the constitutional deadline for holding elections.
Dialogue: a path to electoral harmony
According to Safi Kayungo Thérèse, political dialogue would promote harmony in the electoral process led by the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI). In the face of diverging opinions on participation in elections, dialogue could enable political actors to find common ground and ensure an inclusive and peaceful process. However, the Vice-President stressed that respecting the constitutional deadline remains essential.
Restore trust through constructive dialogue
For Safi Kayungo Thérèse, the dialogue before the elections offers the possibility of listening attentively to the concerns of the political opposition and civil society. In particular, she proposes to consider adding members of the opposition to the Constitutional Court and the CENI, in order to restore confidence in the electoral process. However, the vice-president insists on the fact that the dialogue must not compromise the respect of the laws and the fundamental principles enshrined in the constitution.
The need for an apolitical and independent CENI
At the same time, Safi Kayungo Thérèse pleads for an apolitical and independent Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI). She asserts that this neutrality is essential to guarantee credible and transparent elections. She compares the CENI to “the church in the middle of the village”, a symbol of trust and impartiality.
Conclusion :
Political dialogue presents itself as a promising option for the DRC, in order to overcome differences and ensure inclusive and peaceful elections. Safi Kayungo Thérèse, vice-president of the Haut-Katanga civil society consultation framework, supports this approach while stressing the importance of respecting the constitution and preserving the independence of the CENI