“Unbearable wait: The results of the legislative elections in the DRC delayed, appeals under examination”

The results of the national and provincial legislative elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are eagerly awaited by the population. However, the Independent National Electoral Commission (Céni) delayed the publication of the results, causing impatience and concern.
According to internal sources, the CENI fell behind in compiling the results due to the taking into account of the ballot papers. This operation required time and resources to ensure the integrity of the electoral process. In addition, the Ceni was also faced with cases of fraud, corruption and ballot stuffing, which further delayed the publication of the results.
In two towns, Yakoma and Masimanimba, the polls were canceled due to numerous cases of fraud. Eighty-two candidates had their votes invalidated, requiring an in-depth review by the Ceni to determine the final results. In addition, free appeals were lodged by certain candidates, which caused a further delay in the publication of the results.
Currently, the Council of State is examining these appeals and must render a decision soon. However, Céni officials believe that they could publish the results by constituency, starting with areas where no fraud has been detected. This would make it possible to provide a rapid response to the population’s expectations while continuing to examine current appeals.
It is important to note that only political parties and groups having obtained more than 1% of the votes will be able to sit in the National Assembly. The list of parties having reached this threshold has already been sent to the president of the Ceni by the executive secretariat of the technical body.
In conclusion, although the publication of the results of the national and provincial legislative elections in the DRC has been delayed, measures are being taken to guarantee the integrity of the electoral process and meet the expectations of the population. The current appeals are examined, and the Ceni plans to publish the results by constituency in order to move the process forward. Patience remains essential, but a final answer should not take long.