Recent comments by Ambassador Herman J. Cohen on a possible postponement of the polls in the DRC have shaken confidence in the holding of elections scheduled for December 20. As a former US deputy minister for African affairs, Cohen is a recognized expert on the Congolese field, which makes his analysis all the more concerning. This statement also reinforces the doubts expressed by Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo. Uncertainty surrounding election logistics and ongoing financial problems reinforce the idea that the election could be postponed.
At the national level, the former president of the CENI, Corneille Nangaa, continues to affirm that there will be no elections on December 20. His statements appear to corroborate the logistical and financial difficulties mentioned by Cohen. Furthermore, during the consultation framework with the presidential candidates, Denis Kadima Kazadi had already expressed his concern about the funding gap of 300 million USD to finalize the electoral operations.
In this worrying context, the government reacted by announcing the allocation of an additional USD 130 million to the CENI to advance electoral preparations. This measure aims to allay fears and maintain the planned electoral calendar. However, it remains to be seen whether this addition of funds will be sufficient to resolve the logistical and financial problems that persist.
The election campaign is unfolding alongside this uncertainty, with many national and international figures expressing skepticism that the elections will be held on schedule. This situation creates palpable tension and fuels speculation about the political future of the country.
It is therefore essential to closely monitor developments in the electoral situation in the DRC in the coming weeks. Potential delays or postponements of elections could have a significant impact on political stability and citizen confidence. The political future of the country is in suspense and the stakes of the coming months are crucial for the democratic future of the DRC.