Title: The decision of the CENI to cancel fraudulent votes in the DRC welcomed by civil society
Introduction:
The Democratic Republic of Congo was recently the scene of a major political event, with the cancellation of the results of the legislative, provincial and municipal elections of December 20, 2023 by the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI). This decision, motivated by findings of fraud, corruption, intimidation and vandalism, was applauded by many voices within Congolese civil society. This article will look at the reaction of the NGO Voice of the Voiceless (VSV) and will highlight the importance of this decision for the consolidation of democracy in the DRC.
Support from the Voice of the Voiceless (VSV):
Rostin Manketa, Executive Director of the NGO Voice of the Voiceless (VSV), spoke in favor of the CENI’s decision. According to him, this cancellation of votes obtained by candidates accused of violations of human rights and fundamental freedoms of citizens constitutes a strong signal for the consolidation of democracy in the DRC. He also emphasizes that the sanction applies indiscriminately to all candidates, including those of the ruling parties, thus demonstrating the desire to preserve the integrity of the elections. Manketa believes that these candidates should resign from their positions in order to allow Congolese justice to do its work.
CENI investigations:
The decision to annul the election results follows investigations carried out by the CENI to examine the various irregularities which disrupted the conduct of the polls. Acts of violence, vandalism and sabotage were perpetrated by some candidates, endangering the security of voters and electoral materials. Following the recommendations of electoral observers, the CENI took strong measures to guarantee the integrity and validity of the elections.
Mixed reactions:
This decision by the CENI, however, sparked mixed reactions. Some political actors believe that these cancellations could also impact the results of the presidential election. The main presidential candidates are demanding the outright cancellation of the polls due to the irregularities noted by electoral observation missions. Questions therefore remain about the overall impact of this decision on the Congolese political landscape.
Conclusion:
The CENI’s decision to cancel fraudulent votes in the DRC was welcomed by Congolese civil society, represented in particular by the Voice of the Voiceless (VSV). This decision marks an important step in the consolidation of democracy in the DRC, by guaranteeing the integrity and validity of elections. However, questions remain about the impact of this decision on the entire electoral process. The DRC’s political future remains uncertain, but the CENI’s efforts to combat electoral fraud are a step in the right direction.