The provisional results of the legislative elections which took place in the Democratic Republic of Congo on December 20, 2023 have finally been published by the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI). These results revealed a resounding victory for the Union for Democracy and Social Progress (UDPS), the political party led by President Félix Tshisekedi.
With more than 60 elected candidates, the UDPS is clearly positioned as the leading political force in the country and is making a real breakthrough on the Congolese parliamentary scene. Among the emerging political figures of the UDPS, we find names such as Tony Mwaba Kazadi, elected in the Kinshasa Lukunga constituency, Daniel Aselo, elected in Sankuru, Michel Lumengo, elected in Tshopo, and Jean-Pierre Lihau, elected in Ecuador Bumba.
This electoral success of the UDPS extends to all provinces of the country, both in rural and urban areas. From traditional strongholds like Kasaï and Sankuru to large cities like Kinshasa, Lubumbashi and Goma, Félix Tshisekedi’s party was able to convince voters and win numerous seats in the National Assembly.
If these provisional results are confirmed by the Constitutional Court, this will give the UDPS and Félix Tshisekedi the means to govern more calmly and implement their political program. This electoral victory strengthens the position of the UDPS as the leading political force in the country and opens new perspectives for the future of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
It is important to emphasize that these provisional results are only one step in the electoral process and that they will be examined and validated by the Constitutional Court. It is also essential to remember that democracy in the DRC is a process in constant evolution, and that these legislative elections mark a new stage in the construction of a democratic and transparent political system.
The publication of these provisional results is already sparking reactions and debates within the Congolese political class. Other political parties will now have to analyze these results and readjust their strategies for the next elections.
In conclusion, the provisional results of the legislative elections in the DRC have made the UDPS emerge as the leading political force in the country. This electoral success offers new opportunities for the UDPS and Félix Tshisekedi to implement their political program and contribute to the development and stability of the Democratic Republic of Congo. There is still a long way to go, but these results are an important step in the consolidation of democracy in the DRC.