The early electoral campaign in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is currently generating a lot of attention in the media. Indeed, since the publication of the final list of candidates for national deputy by the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI), politicians have embarked on a real media race to win the favor of voters. However, this early campaign raises questions about its legality and the penalties media outlets could face for carrying promotional messages.
According to the electoral law in force in the DRC, the electoral campaign is authorized a maximum of thirty days before the election date and must end 24 hours before this date. The Higher Council for Audiovisual and Communication (CSAC) therefore called on the media to refrain from broadcasting any message of a promotional nature related to the electoral campaign.
But what are the risks run by the media who do not respect this instruction? I had the opportunity to speak on this subject with Oscar Kabamba Kasongo, member of the CSAC, who explained to me the sanctions provided for by the law.
According to Mr. Kasongo, media guilty of broadcasting electoral campaign messages outside the legal deadlines are exposed to sanctions ranging from financial fines to the suspension or even temporary or permanent closure of their press organ. These sanctions aim to guarantee the fairness and transparency of the electoral process by preventing excessive media influence on voters’ choices.
It is important to emphasize that the CSAC’s mission is to ensure respect for ethics and professional conduct in the field of audiovisual and communication in the DRC. In this crucial electoral period, the role of the CSAC is therefore all the more important to ensure the smooth running of the elections and freedom of expression of the media.
In conclusion, the early electoral campaign in the DRC is giving rise to lively discussions and questions about its compliance with the electoral law in force. The media must respect the imposed deadlines and refrain from broadcasting promotional messages outside these periods. The planned sanctions are severe and aim to preserve the fairness and transparency of the electoral process. CSAC plays a vital role in monitoring this campaign and preserving media freedom of expression.