Title: The challenges of the Constitutional Court in the publication of candidates for the presidential election.
Introduction:
The imminent publication of the final list of candidates for the presidential election on December 20 by the Constitutional Court raises many expectations and questions. In a context where political tensions and centrifugal forces are at their peak, it is essential that the Court promotes social peace and avoids any exclusionary policy. In this article, we will emphasize the importance of preserving living together and the harmful consequences of the crystallization of identity in the political debate.
The resurgence of unfounded accusations against Moïse Katumbi Chapwe:
A recent event highlighted the identity drifts within the Congolese political landscape. Noël Tshiani, an unserious candidate, filed a request to cancel the candidacy of Moïse Katumbi Chapwe, who is seen as a threat by those in power. The argument put forward in this request is based on unfounded allegations of dual Italian nationality on the part of Moïse Katumbi. However, these accusations were formally denied by the mayor of the Italian city supposed to be the place of registration of his nationality. It is obvious that this approach only aims to eliminate a feared candidate, and reflects a worrying tribal-ethnic drift in the Congolese political landscape.
The importance of preserving living together in a multi-ethnic country:
This controversy reveals the dangers of the crystallization of identity in the political debate of a multi-ethnic country like the DRC. History has shown time and time again that breaking the bonds of living together can lead to the disintegration of a nation. Examples such as Yugoslavia, Sudan, Czechoslovakia and Ethiopia bear witness to this. Patrice Lumumba understood this problem well when he called on the Congolese to put aside ethnic quarrels to preserve national unity.
The responsibility to preserve national unity:
Unfortunately, throughout the mandate of the current president, those in power have often been tempted by a policy of identity confinement. Insulting and discriminatory statements against certain ethnic groups have been made by political representatives, fueling divisions and tensions. This identity drift threatens not only social peace, but also Congolese national unity.
Conclusion:
The imminent publication of the final list of candidates for the presidential election by the Constitutional Court is a crucial moment for the DRC. It is essential that the Court demonstrate neutrality, transparency and respect for living together by avoiding exclusionary policies and dismissing unfounded accusations based on identity divisions.. By preserving national unity, the DRC will be able to move towards a more peaceful and prosperous future.