Title: Insecurity in the DRC jeopardizes upcoming elections
Introduction :
In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), concern is growing as areas affected by insecurity expand, with general elections scheduled for later this year. The Synergy of Citizen Election Observation Missions (SYMOCEL) expresses its concern about this situation, stressing that certain regions of the country were unable to participate in electoral registration due to instability. In this article, we will examine the areas affected by insecurity in the DRC and the challenges this poses for the electoral process.
North Kivu and the province of Mai-Ndombe: regions not enrolled
SYMOCEL underlines that the territories of Masisi and Rutshuru, in the province of North Kivu, did not participate in the registration of voters due to persistent insecurity. These territories are still under the influence of armed groups and the M23 occupation, which hinders the participation of the populations in the elections scheduled for December. Likewise, the territory of Kwamouth, in the province of Mai-Ndombe, is also affected by insecurity and could not be enrolled.
Intercommunal violence in Kisangani and in the province of Tshopo
In addition to the regions previously mentioned, intercommunal violence in Kisangani and in several localities in the province of Tshopo is another source of concern for SYMOCEL. Since last February, a land conflict has opposed the Mbole and Lengola communities, already causing more than 500 deaths and 70,000 displaced people. This situation risks hindering the participation of populations in elections.
Responsibility for ensuring security during the electoral process
Faced with this alarming expansion of areas of insecurity, SYMOCEL calls on the Minister of the Interior to become aware of his responsibility for the security of candidates, people and their property during the electoral period. It also calls for the urgent publication of a plan to secure the electoral process and restore peace in areas affected by community violence.
Conclusion
Growing insecurity in the DRC poses a major challenge to elections scheduled for later this year. The territories of North Kivu and Mai-Ndombe, as well as inter-community violence in Kisangani and the province of Tshopo, are compromising citizen participation in the democratic process. It is crucial that the authorities take immediate measures to ensure the safety of populations and guarantee free and fair elections. The whole world is closely monitoring developments in the DRC.