Title: Contested elections in the DRC: civil society calls for transparency
Introduction :
The electoral process in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) was marked by strong criticism from the National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO) and the Church of Christ in Congo (ECC). The two religious institutions expressed their concern about the irregularities and violations of the legal framework during the voting operations in December 2023. They called on the Prosecutor General at the Constitutional Court to take measures to investigate these irregularities. In this article, we will examine civil society’s reactions to these electoral protests and the importance of ensuring transparency in the democratic process.
The contestation of elections by civil society:
CENCO and the ECC are not the only voices speaking out against the irregularities observed during the elections in the DRC. Many civil society organizations have also expressed their concern and discontent. They emphasize the importance of respecting democratic principles and guaranteeing the integrity of the electoral process.
The request for an independent investigation:
Faced with documented irregularities, civil society is calling for the establishment of an independent and mixed commission of inquiry. This commission would be responsible for examining all denunciations linked to fraud and violations of the legal framework. The objective is to shed light on these incidents and punish those responsible.
Condemnation of violence:
In addition to the irregularities, civil society also strongly condemns the verbal and physical violence which marked the electoral process in the DRC. She calls for legal action against the perpetrators of these acts of violence in order to ensure justice and the rule of law.
The importance of transparency:
Transparency is a key element in any democratic process. It is essential that the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) publishes provisional results in accordance with the electoral law. This will help dispel doubts and guarantee the confidence of the Congolese people in the electoral process. Transparency is also crucial to maintaining peace and stability in the country.
Conclusion :
Critics from CENCO, ECC and civil society highlight the importance of ensuring transparency in the electoral process in the DRC. It is necessary that all irregularities and violations of the legal framework be thoroughly investigated and those responsible held accountable. Transparency is an essential condition to strengthen the confidence of the Congolese people in democracy and to ensure the stability of the country.