Acts of sabotage during electoral campaigns in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have recently made headlines. As candidates work to get their ideas out there and win the support of voters, some individuals choose to engage in acts of destruction and disruption.
One commonly reported act of sabotage is the tearing down of effigies and defacement of campaign posters. Candidates expressed frustration with this waste of money and resources. Monique Kabedi, candidate for mayor of Lubumbashi, testified about the tearing of her posters and the attack on her mobilizer, who had his megaphone and his polo shirts ripped away.
These acts of sabotage occur in cities such as Lubumbashi, Likasi and Kasumbalesa. Candidates and their campaign teams face challenges in conducting their activities peacefully and without incident.
The provincial authorities reacted to these acts of sabotage by issuing a warning against the perpetrators. The provincial commissioner of the national police in Haut-Katanga declared that it was forbidden to engage in the tearing down of effigies and the destruction of candidates’ property. He also stressed that anyone guilty of these acts would be arrested and brought to justice.
These incidents come only a few days after the launch of the electoral campaign across the country. It is regrettable that some individuals choose to disrupt the democratic process instead of encouraging and supporting it.
It is important to remember that elections are a crucial moment for democracy and the development of the country. They offer citizens the opportunity to choose their leaders and actively participate in political decision-making.
It is therefore essential that the authorities take measures to ensure the safety of candidates and ensure peaceful and fair elections. Cooperation between security forces and candidates, as well as raising voter awareness on the importance of respecting the rights of all candidates, are key elements in maintaining a conducive environment for elections.
In conclusion, acts of sabotage during electoral campaigns in the DRC are worrying and harm democracy and the electoral process. It is necessary for provincial authorities to take firm measures against