The National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO) and the Church of Christ in Congo (ECC) play a key role in promoting transparency and inclusion in the electoral process in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). As part of their joint observation mission, these two organizations expressed their desire to contribute to honest and peaceful elections.
In a joint memorandum, the CENCO-ECC Electoral Observation Mission (MOE) stressed the importance of restoring the confidence of all actors involved in the electoral process. To do this, the MOE plans to carry out two main actions: an audit of the electoral register and a comparison of the data from the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) when they are published.
The audit of the electoral register aims to guarantee its integrity and reliability. The MOE will use an election observation methodology called Sample Based Observation (SBO) to independently verify official election results. The results of this audit will then be shared with the CENI with the aim of promoting acceptance of the results by all stakeholders concerned.
In addition to the audit of the electoral register, the MOE will set up a transparency mechanism by creating a collaboration system with the CENI. This collaboration will allow the CENI to have access to the MOE call center to observe and verify the methods used. Electoral IT specialists from political parties will also be invited to observe the work in the EOM call center. This double observation aims to strengthen confidence in the electoral process.
The MOE wishes to formalize this collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding with the CENI. This document will ensure transparent and effective cooperation between the two entities.
It is important to emphasize that the main objective of the CENCO-ECC MOE is to contribute to the consolidation of peace and stability in the DRC before, during and after the elections. By promoting transparency and inclusion, these organizations hope to promote the confidence of political actors and the population in the electoral process, which is essential to guarantee free and fair elections.
In conclusion, the CENCO-ECC electoral observation mission plays a crucial role in promoting transparency and inclusion in the electoral process in the DRC. Their commitment to conducting an audit of the electoral register and comparing CENI data is an important step towards honest and peaceful elections. The collaboration between the MOE and the CENI, formalized by a Memorandum of Understanding, will strengthen confidence in the electoral process and contribute to the consolidation of peace and stability in the DRC.