Title: The validation of candidacies for the presidential election of December 2023 in the DRC: How to read the judgments of the Constitutional Court?
Introduction :
The Constitutional Court of the DRC has delivered its verdict concerning the candidacies for the presidential elections of December 2023. After examining several requests, the Court validated 26 candidacies, including that of outgoing President Félix Tshisekedi. However, some candidates have challenged these decisions. In this article we will analyze the judgments of the Constitutional Court and examine the different perspectives on this issue.
Analysis of the judgments of the Constitutional Court:
The Constitutional Court’s rulings provoked mixed reactions. Some welcome the Court’s decision to validate the candidacies, stressing that this guarantees a democratic and inclusive electoral process. Others, on the other hand, criticize the lack of transparency in the validation process and question the impartiality of the Court.
As for the candidates, some welcomed the validation of their candidacy, considering this as recognition of their political legitimacy. Others, however, expressed their disappointment and denounced irregularities in the validation process.
Expert opinion:
According to Bob Kabamba, professor at the University of Liège in Belgium and political scientist, the judgments of the Constitutional Court reflect a desire to respect the constitution and electoral laws in force in the DRC. However, it also highlights the need to improve the transparency and impartiality of the process in order to strengthen citizens’ trust.
Willy Wenga, lawyer at the Kinshasa-Gombe bar and expert in legal matters, warns against suspicions of bias and underlines the importance of an impeccable electoral process to guarantee the legitimacy of elected leaders.
Marie Lukusa, lawyer and human rights activist, calls for a reform of the judicial system and greater involvement of civil society in the process of validating candidacies.
Conclusion :
The validation of candidacies for the December 2023 presidential elections in the DRC by the Constitutional Court raises questions about the transparency and impartiality of the process. Although some welcome this decision as a step towards a democratic electoral process, it is essential to improve citizen confidence by ensuring the transparency and integrity of the electoral process. Reform of the judicial system and greater participation of civil society can help strengthen the legitimacy of elected leaders and consolidate democracy in the DRC.