The challenges of equal opportunities in the upcoming elections in the DRC
In a statement released Wednesday, the CENCO-ECC Electoral Observation Mission called on the Constitutional Court to guarantee equal opportunities for all candidates in the December 2023 elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This declaration comes in a context where the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) is making efforts to ensure the inclusiveness of candidates, in particular by enlisting Congolese who had not been able to obtain their voter card due to insecurity.
The MOE CENCO-ECC underlined the importance of the publication of the provisional electoral list and the mapping of polling stations, which should have been made public thirty days before the start of the electoral campaign. She encouraged the CENI to publish them quickly in order to avoid any conflict in the information disseminated.
In addition, the Observation Mission expressed its concern about the absence of the poster officer to record complaints. This situation deprives citizens of their right to an effective remedy and also prevents the MOE CENCO-ECC from carrying out its citizen audit of the electoral register.
Ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates in elections is crucial to preserving the integrity of the democratic process. By providing fair access to resources, information and opportunities, the Constitutional Court will help build confidence in the electoral system and promote transparency.
The CENCO-ECC MOE, as an independent observer, will continue to closely monitor the conduct of the elections and make recommendations to ensure fair and democratic elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Democracy is based on the participation of all citizens and the guarantee of equal opportunities. It is essential that each candidate can compete under fair conditions and that all voters have the opportunity to make their voices heard. The next elections in the DRC will be a crucial moment for the country, and it is essential to do everything possible to ensure their transparency and legitimacy.