A new chapter opens in the Democratic Republic of Congo, as President Félix Tshisekedi calls on the government to assess the security situation in the territories of Masisi, Rutshuru and Kwamouth. In the context of preparation for the general elections scheduled for December 2023, the President wishes to ensure that these regions are sufficiently secure to allow the electoral process to take place.
During a meeting of the council of ministers, President Tshisekedi highlighted a significant improvement in the security situation in Kwamouth, as well as the gradual liberation of the territories of Masisi and Rutshuru, previously under the control of the M23 rebel group supported by Rwanda. This encouraging development prompted the President to ask the government and the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) to carry out a thorough assessment of the situation and take the necessary measures to guarantee the security of voters in these regions.
The Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of the Interior, Security and Customary Affairs received specific instructions to strengthen the deployment of the Congolese National Police in Kwamouth, in order to ensure the safety of residents. In addition, in collaboration with the Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense and Veterans Affairs, he will have to supervise the return of displaced populations to the recently liberated territories of Masisi and Rutshuru.
Securing CENI operations in these regions is also a priority. This concerns in particular the opening of registration centers for the registration of voters and the summoning of the electorate. In September, the CENI expressed its need for security guarantees to carry out these operations. Although the CENI declares itself technically ready, security remains a major issue to be resolved.
The month of October is a crucial period for these operations. If the security situation does not improve, it will be difficult to count the population of these regions for the upcoming elections. Thus, the smooth running of the elections will largely depend on future developments in terms of security.
This announcement by President Félix Tshisekedi shows the desire of the Congolese government to actively work towards the stabilization and security of the country, particularly in regions affected by past conflicts. Holding free and fair elections is essential for democracy and the development of the Democratic Republic of Congo. By assessing and improving the security situation in Masisi, Rutshuru and Kwamouth territories, the country is taking an important step towards these crucial elections.