Martin Fayulu denounces an attempted electoral hold-up in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). While the general elections are scheduled for December 20, the Congolese opponent accuses the power in place of preparing electoral fraud for the benefit of Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi.
In a letter addressed to Volker Türk, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Martin Fayulu denounces a critical human rights situation in this pre-election period. He highlights the insecurity, private militias and the climate of fear that reign, as well as the arbitrary arrests of opponents, human rights activists and journalists. According to him, these elements demonstrate electoral fraud in preparation.
Martin Fayulu also puts forward several facts to support his accusations. He mentions the adoption of an electoral law enshrining semi-electronic voting and not accepting the proclamation of results office by office. It also highlights the creation of fictitious voters during the voter identification and registration operation, as well as the refusal of an independent audit of the electoral register. According to him, these measures encourage electoral fraud.
Coalition leader Lamuka also denounces the establishment of a state of siege in the provinces of North Kivu and Ituri, which restricts the fundamental freedoms of citizens. He also criticizes the adoption of an organic law on the organization and functioning of the Independent National Electoral Commission, without consensus between all stakeholders.
In his letter, Martin Fayulu warns of the consequences of any form of electoral fraud. He says those who encourage such practices will be held accountable by the Congolese people. It emphasizes the determination of the Congolese to have free, impartial, inclusive and transparent elections.
The political situation in the DRC remains tense as the general elections approach. Accusations of electoral fraud and tensions between different political actors are all factors fueling concerns about the transparency of the electoral process. It remains to be hoped that the elections will take place in accordance with democratic principles and will allow the Congolese people to exercise their right to choose their representatives in a free and fair manner.