Opposition demonstrators in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) continue to mobilize to demand the cancellation and reorganization of the elections of December 20. Moïse Katumbi, one of the presidential candidates, says the march organized in Kinshasa is only the beginning of a series of actions.
In a message on social networks, Moïse Katumbi strongly condemns the repression suffered by demonstrators, in particular supporters of the ECIDE party, affiliated with Martin Fayulu. According to him, this event marks a point of no return and will be followed by other actions across the country. He affirms that cheating, fraud and lies will not pass and calls for the peaceful defense of freedom and democracy.
Moïse Katumbi had initially claimed victory in the elections even before the Independent National Electoral Commission (Céni) announced the first trends. He then joined the camp of opposition candidates calling for the cancellation and reorganization of the elections due to the numerous irregularities which marred them.
The cumulative results of the diaspora and the 177 electoral constituencies published by the Céni place Moïse Katumbi far behind Félix Tshisekedi, current president of the DRC, with only 15.71% of the votes against 77.35% for the outgoing president.
The banned march which took place in Kinshasa left several injured among the ranks of the demonstrators and the police. The police also denounce the use of minors as human shields by the organizers of the demonstration.
This mobilization of the opposition in the DRC highlights the persistent tensions around the electoral process and calls into question the legitimacy of the government in place. The situation remains tense and the Congolese people continue to demand a fair and transparent democracy.
The violent repression of the opposition march in the DRC once again highlights the importance of defending democratic rights and freedom of expression, not only in this country, but around the world. The events in the DRC are a reminder of the importance of citizen vigilance and respect for fundamental democratic principles.