According to current data, the upcoming elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo raise important questions about balanced representation between male and female candidates. It is essential to shine a light on this disparity and understand the impact of gender in our society. As young people, we must think seriously about this fourth electoral experience in order to promote real change in the management of our country.
Being young is not just about our physical strength or our powerful voice. It is our ability to imagine, to decide positively, to transform difficult situations into opportunities, and to have the will to make a difference. Being young also means having a conscience that guides us towards good and refuses us to accept evil. We must engage in practical ways for the well-being of our people.
In these elections, let’s not vote simply to fill voting centers or to increase the number of participants. Let’s not vote because our family asks us to, or because a candidate is from our tribe. Let’s not vote for empty promises or for candidates who only think of us when they need our votes. On the contrary, let us vote with discernment in accordance with our values and our convictions. Let us analyze the paths, actions and commitments of the candidates towards young Congolese people. Let us not leave our precious vote in the hands of those who will not be there to support us once elected.
It is also important to highlight the underrepresentation of women in presidential elections. Despite the progress made in some countries, women’s political participation still remains low. If in 2006, 4 women were candidates out of 33, in 2011, only one woman was selected out of 12 candidates, and in 2018, out of 19 candidates selected, no woman was able to run due to nationality problems. This situation persists in 2023, with only one woman candidate, the same as in 2018. It is crucial to highlight this inequality and promote a more balanced representation of women in Congolese politics.
In short, these upcoming elections are an opportunity for young Congolese to make their voices heard and embody the change that our country needs. Let’s not let our vote be manipulated by empty promises or personal interests. Let’s vote in conscience, based on the candidates’ real actions and commitments towards young people and women. Let us commit to a better future for all Congolese, where fairness, equal opportunities and the active participation of all will be the pillars of our society. The power is in our hands, let’s seize this opportunity to create real impact.