Title: Political agents called upon to play a key role in the electoral process
Introduction :
As part of the preparations for the December 2023 elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the President of the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI), Denis KADIMA KAZADI, recently invited the representatives of political parties and groups to get actively involved in civics election of their voters. This call aims to ensure broad inclusiveness of the electoral process, in accordance with the timetable established by the CENI. This initiative underlines the importance of the involvement of all political actors in awareness-raising and electoral education.
The crucial role of political representatives:
In his speech during a consultation session with political representatives, Denis KADIMA KAZADI underlined the importance of the involvement of political representatives in the electoral process. He insisted that the December 2023 elections are irreversible and that the CENI is actively continuing its preparations in accordance with the electoral calendar. Political representatives are therefore called upon to play a key role in the electoral education of their activists in order to guarantee massive and informed participation of the population during the election.
The importance of voter education:
Awareness and electoral education are essential to allow each voter to know the different stages of the electoral process, the rights and duties that result from it, as well as the voting procedures. Political proxies can play a key role in disseminating this information, by organizing briefings, awareness campaigns and providing educational materials to their constituents. The objective is to allow each citizen to understand the importance and impact of their voice in the choice of the country’s future leaders.
The electronic voting device (DEV):
During the consultation framework, CENI experts also addressed the issue of the Electronic Voting Device (DEV). This technology aims to facilitate the voting process and guarantee the transparency and reliability of the vote. Political representatives were informed of the terms of use of the DEV and its impact on the conduct of elections. It is essential that political officials understand how this technology works, so they can explain its use to voters and reassure them of its reliability.
Conclusion :
The CENI President’s call to political representatives for greater involvement in electoral citizenship opens the way to more inclusive and informed electoral participation. Political representatives have a key role to play in the electoral education of their voters, by making them aware of the different stages of the electoral process and explaining to them the importance of their participation. The use of the Electronic Voting Device (EVD) also constitutes a major issue, and it is essential that political representatives understand how it works in order to transmit it to their activists. Together, all political actors can contribute to transparent and democratic elections in December 2023.