Félix Tshisekedi confirmed president of the Democratic Republic of Congo by the Constitutional Court
In a decision rendered on Tuesday evening, January 9, the Constitutional Court of the Democratic Republic of Congo confirmed the victory of Félix Tshisekedi in the presidential election of December 20. This confirmation follows the examination of two appeals filed requesting the cancellation of the vote.
Félix Tshisekedi obtained 73.47% of the votes, thus confirming the results proclaimed by the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI). This announcement marks a major turning point in the political history of the DRC, with the peaceful alternation of power after many years of reign of Joseph Kabila.
Among the appeals examined by the Constitutional Court, that filed by a candidate, Théodore Ngoy, was the only one to expressly request the cancellation of the vote due to irregularities noted on the day of the vote. However, the Court found this appeal admissible but unfounded, thus confirming the validity of the results.
As for the appeal filed by a private citizen, it was declared inadmissible due to a lack of quality. This decision raises questions about citizens’ access to legal remedies in the event of an electoral dispute.
Despite this confirmation, doubts persist as to the legitimacy of Félix Tshisekedi’s victory. Some political opponents have chosen to refrain from filing appeals, accusing the Constitutional Court of being subservient to the power in place. These dissenting voices call into question the independence and integrity of the electoral process.
Nevertheless, the confirmation of Félix Tshisekedi’s victory opens the way to a new political era in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Expectations are high, both nationally and internationally, and the new president will now face many challenges to meet the aspirations of the Congolese population and rebuild the country.
In conclusion, the confirmation of Félix Tshisekedi as president of the Democratic Republic of Congo by the Constitutional Court marks a historic moment for the country. However, doubts and disputes persist, highlighting the democratic issues and challenges that the new president will have to face. Only the future will tell us how this new political era in the DRC will unfold.