Title: SADC pre-electoral assessment mission in the DRC: a step towards credible and peaceful elections
Introduction :
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is actively preparing for the next presidential, legislative, provincial deputies and communal council elections scheduled for December 20, 2023. In this perspective, a delegation from the Southern African Development Community ( SADC) carried out a mission to assess the pre-electoral framework in the DRC. This mission marks the prelude to the deployment of SADC electoral observers and aims to ensure that conditions are met for credible and peaceful elections.
A pre-electoral framework evaluated in all its dimensions:
The SADC delegation, made up of members of the Electoral Advisory Council, carried out a mission of approximately one week in the DRC. During this period, she met all parties involved in the electoral process, including political groups and the Independent National Electoral Commission (Céni). The main objective was to evaluate the pre-electoral framework in all its dimensions.
Firstly, the delegation ensured that the political and security environment was conducive to the holding of credible and peaceful elections. This assessment takes into account the political situation and possible tensions between the different political actors present.
Then, the mission carefully examined the legal framework which governs the organization of elections in the DRC. This involves ensuring compliance of laws and regulations with international standards for democratic elections.
Finally, the preparation for the Céni was evaluated. The delegation analyzed the measures taken by the institution responsible for organizing the elections to guarantee their smooth running. This includes in particular the electoral census, the material and logistical organization of the polls, as well as compliance with set deadlines.
The concerns expressed by the opposition:
During this assessment mission, all stakeholders had the opportunity to submit their observations and concerns. The opposition has notably expressed concerns about the inclusiveness of the electoral process. She questioned the possibility for all political actors to participate equitably.
In addition, questions relating to the financing and logistics of the elections were also discussed. The opposition has raised doubts about the transparency and fairness in the allocation of budgetary resources for the elections, as well as about the CENI’s ability to organize the polls effectively.
Conclusion :
SADC pre-electoral assessment mission to DRC is an important step towards credible and peaceful elections. By assessing the pre-electoral framework in all its dimensions, the SADC delegation ensures that the necessary conditions are met to guarantee transparent, inclusive elections accepted by all political actors. The mission’s final report, expected by mid-November, will identify possible gaps and propose recommendations to strengthen the electoral process in the DRC. The involvement of the SADC in these elections demonstrates the importance given by the international community to political stability and democratization in the DRC.