The political landscape of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is gradually taking shape in view of the presidential elections scheduled for December 2023. The ruling political coalition, the Sacred Union, officially nominated its candidate, Félix Tshisekedi, during a large demonstration in Kinshasa. This designation is not a surprise, because the ruling party, the UDPS, had already announced its support for Tshisekedi. Additionally, other prominent political figures have also expressed support for his candidacy.
Félix Tshisekedi, current president of the DRC, thus broadens his support and confirms his intentions to run for a second term during this presidential election which is crucial for the future of the country. This official designation during the symbolic ceremony of October 1 shows the confidence placed in him by his political partners within the Sacred Union.
Among the political figures who gave their support to Tshisekedi, we find Jean-Pierre Bemba, who made it clear that he would not run and that he would support the current president. Likewise, Vital Kamerhe, Deputy Prime Minister in charge of Defense, also expressed his support for Tshisekedi, emphasizing the importance of putting aside personal ambitions for the benefit of the collective interest.
Members of the Sacred Union, including prominent institutional figures such as Bahati Lukwebo and Mboso Nkodia, have all reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Tshisekedi in his bid for the presidency. A report released after the ceremony confirmed this commitment and called for unity in supporting Tshisekedi’s political vision.
This designation of Tshisekedi as candidate of the Sacred Union opens the way to an electoral campaign which promises to be intense and competitive. Congolese voters will soon have to decide on the outgoing president’s record and his promises for the future of the country.
It now remains to be seen what the reaction of other political parties and the opposition will be to this designation. Some political figures could decide to run as independent candidates or form alliances to counter Tshisekedi’s candidacy.
Whatever happens, these presidential elections will be decisive for the political future of the DRC. Expectations are high, and Congolese citizens hope for real change and improvement in their living conditions. It is now up to the candidates to put forward their programs and convince voters of their ability to lead the country towards prosperity and stability.
In conclusion, the designation of Félix Tshisekedi as candidate of the Sacred Union for the presidential election of December 2023 marks an important step in the race for the presidency in the DRC. It remains to be seen how this candidacy will be received by other political actors and by Congolese voters. The coming weeks and months will be decisive for the political future of the country.