Title: The SADC delegation on a pre-electoral assessment mission in the DRC: clarifications from the President of the National Assembly
Introduction :
In the tense political context in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a delegation from the Electoral Advisory Council of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) is currently on a pre-electoral assessment mission in the country. This visit was the subject of rumors raising questions about the real intentions of the delegation. The President of the National Assembly, Christophe Mboso, wanted to clarify the situation during his discussions with the delegation. This article reviews the declarations of President Mboso and the explanations of the head of the SADC delegation, Natemba Tjigueja.
The aim of the pre-electoral assessment mission:
According to Christophe Mboso, the mission of the SADC delegation is above all to be aware of the evolution of the electoral process in the DRC before the arrival of the SADC observation mission. He specifies that this visit aims to assess the security and political environment, the legal framework as well as the degree of preparation of the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI). He insists that this is in no way a mission aimed at charting the path to postponing the elections or initiating a political dialogue.
Discussions with different political actors:
The SADC delegation met with various political groups in the DRC, including the FCC of former President Joseph Kabila, A.Ch of Jean-Marc Kabund, Envol of Delly Sesanga, and MLP of Franck Diongo. Each of these political actors expressed their analyzes and considerations on the current electoral process. On the side of the presidential majority, Christophe Mboso affirmed that the electoral process in the DRC is inclusive, with 25,000 national deputy candidates and 24 presidential candidates. He highlights the efforts of the CENI to ensure that the elections are held as planned on December 20.
Confidentiality of the evaluation mission report:
Natemba Tjigueja, head of the SADC delegation, indicated that the report of the pre-electoral assessment mission will not be made public in Kinshasa. She specifies that the report will be submitted to the president of the SADC security organ and that its contents will remain confidential. The delegation is currently collecting information and discussing with all stakeholders to prepare this report.
Conclusion :
The visit of the SADC Electoral Advisory Council delegation to the DRC raises questions about its real intentions. The President of the National Assembly, Christophe Mboso, wanted to clarify the situation by affirming that the mission of the delegation is above all to evaluate the evolution of the electoral process in the DRC. Discussions with the various political actors made it possible to express divergent analyzes on the electoral process. The report of the assessment mission will remain confidential and will be submitted to the President of the SADC Security Organ.