2023-09-20
In exactly three months, the Congolese people will be called to the polls to choose their next President of the Republic as well as their representatives in the National Assembly, the Senate and the Provincial Assemblies. This electoral deadline is already arousing numerous reactions within national and international opinion.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (Ceni) affirms its determination to organize the elections in accordance with the timetable set for November 26, 2023. However, some political actors express concerns about the preparation and transparency of the electoral process.
To date, four candidates have officially declared themselves for the presidential race: Augustin Matata Ponyo, Constant Mutamba, Rex Kazadi and Jo Sekimonyo Mutabazi. Other candidates, whether national or provincial deputies, have also submitted their files to the CENI.
However, despite these announcements, the Congolese opposition appears divided. Some political parties, such as Moïse Katumbi’s Ensemble, Adolphe Muzito’s Lamuka and Vital Kamerhe’s Unc, have decided to participate in the elections. Others, like Martin Fayulu’s Lamuka and Joseph Kabila’s FCC, condition their participation on an audit of the electoral register.
Political tension is increasing as the election date approaches. Human rights organizations denounce arrests and assassinations targeting political opponents, as well as the tracking of journalists. These acts provoke strong criticism and call into question the guarantee of a fair and transparent electoral process.
In this context, the Congolese people express their desire to sanction the political leaders in place since 2018, whose record leaves much to be desired. This desire for change is reflected in the diversity of the candidates and in the support expressed for certain opposition candidates.
The coming months will be crucial for the Democratic Republic of Congo, with important stakes for the future of the country. Holding these elections in a peaceful and transparent climate will be decisive for the political stability and development of the Congo.
It is essential that political actors, institutions and civil society work together to ensure a fair and democratic electoral process, while respecting the rights and aspirations of the Congolese people.
The coming months will therefore be crucial for the Congo, and all eyes will be on the elections of December 2023. Let us hope that these elections will mark a new step towards the consolidation of democracy and the well-being of the Congolese people.