Title: Political representatives, key players in electoral citizenship
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, underlined the importance of the involvement of political party representatives in electoral civics. . During a consultation framework organized with this component, he encouraged these key actors to raise awareness among their activists and to promote broad inclusiveness of the electoral process. A look back at this initiative aimed at strengthening citizen participation.
Irreversible elections and ongoing preparations:
Denis KADIMA KAZADI reminded the representatives of political parties and groups that the December 2023 elections were irreversible and that the CENI was continuing preparations in accordance with its electoral calendar. He mentioned the opening of the Office for Reception and Processing of candidatures for the presidential election and the importance of the upcoming publication of the final list of candidates for national deputies, provincial deputies and municipal councilors. Despite this delay, he assured that it would not seriously impact the electoral calendar.
The involvement of political representatives in electoral citizenship:
The President of the CENI invited the representatives of political parties to become actively involved in the electoral education of their activists. Without engaging in an electoral campaign, he asked them to promote electoral citizenship and encourage their voters to participate massively in the elections. He stressed that this involvement was crucial to ensure broad inclusiveness of the electoral process and to strengthen citizens’ confidence in the electoral system.
The operational stages of the electoral process:
During the consultation framework, CENI experts presented the different operational stages of the electoral process. They covered topics such as the concept of electoral lists, mapping of polling stations, accreditations of witnesses, observers and journalists, as well as the voting and counting process. Among the points raised, the use of the Electronic Voting Device (DEV) was also discussed.
Participants’ concerns:
The interactive part of the consultation framework allowed political representatives to ask questions and raise their concerns. CENI experts answered these questions and provided clarifications on the topics discussed. This helped to strengthen participants’ understanding and ensure better preparation for upcoming elections.
Conclusion :
The involvement of political representatives in electoral civics is essential to ensure the success of the electoral process in the Democratic Republic of Congo. By educating their activists and encouraging their participation, these key actors play a crucial role in promoting democracy and inclusiveness. The CENI continues its preparations in accordance with its electoral calendar, and the awareness-raising carried out by political representatives contributes to strengthening citizen confidence and guaranteeing transparent and democratic elections in December 2023.