Electoral violence in the DRC: A case management center set up to prevent violence during elections
As part of the upcoming elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the NGO Femme main dans la main pour le développement integral (FMMDI), supported by UN-Women, has set up a management center for cases of electoral violence in Kananga, in the Kasai-Central province. The objective of this initiative is to prevent violence during the electoral process and to support victims.
The electoral violence case management house is made up of nine members, including the civil society consultation framework, the Kasaï-Central bar, the Congolese National Police, the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI), the provincial council of youth and the Women’s Network which brings together several women’s structures. Together, they are responsible for monitoring, supporting, denouncing and seeking redress for victims of electoral violence before, during and after the elections.
Nathalie Kambala, director of FMMDI, explains that candidates who are victims of electoral violence are encouraged to go directly to the bar to denounce these acts and demand justice. It is essential to guarantee credible and peaceful elections to strengthen the unity and prosperity of the Congo.
This initiative is an important step in the prevention and management of election-related violence in the DRC. By offering support to victims and holding those responsible for these acts accountable, the electoral violence case management center helps promote a peaceful democracy that respects human rights.
However, it is essential to emphasize that the prevention of electoral violence does not only rely on specific initiatives, but also requires structural actions and continuous awareness-raising of civil society on the importance of peace and non-violence in the electoral process.
In conclusion, the establishment of a house for managing cases of electoral violence in the DRC is a significant step forward in the fight against this scourge. However, it is crucial to continue efforts to ensure peaceful and democratic elections, where every citizen can exercise their right to vote without fearing for their safety. The DRC needs an electoral process that is transparent, inclusive and respectful of the rights of all to build a better future.