Evaluation of the electoral process in DR Congo and recommendations of the CENCO bishops
For two days, bishops members of the National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO) conducted an in-depth assessment of the electoral process in the Democratic Republic of Congo. In their statement, published on Tuesday, January 16, 2024, the CENCO bishops expressed their deep concern about the poor conditions that marked last December’s elections.
The bishops emphasize that the DR Congo is now in danger, because no nation can be built with disregard for moral values. Faced with the multiple socio-political, economic and security challenges facing the country, they call for the use of wisdom and conscious intelligence to build a new Congo, in unity and peace.
In their message, the bishops address recommendations to the various stakeholders:
They ask the President of the Republic to guarantee national unity and territorial integrity, and offer their contribution to help him succeed in his mandate in the interest of the Congolese people.
In the Government, they call for the implementation of necessary and urgent measures to discourage xenophobia and tribalism, as well as the rapid organization of elections in certain territories. They also demand that serious investigations be carried out to identify those involved in the misappropriation of development funds (DEV), and propose a reform of the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) to ensure good electoral governance.
They also urge the Public Prosecutor’s Office, the Courts and Tribunals to handle files relating to electoral disputes impartially, and to prosecute those involved in electoral fraud. The bishops insist on the importance of justice, which must not favor individuals but be at the service of the nation.
Finally, the bishops call on the Congolese people to live together in solidarity and national cohesion, avoiding political manipulation and divisions. They are particularly aimed at young people, calling on them not to allow themselves to be exploited for selfish interests.
This statement from the CENCO bishops comes after the announcement of the results of the presidential election which saw the victory of Félix Tshisekedi. Despite protests and denunciations of fraud, the main opposition candidates have not appealed to the Constitutional Court, which they consider subservient to power.
In the coming days, the president-elect will take office and take the oath of office before the judges of the Constitutional Court. The country is at a crucial turning point in its history, and it is essential that the recommendations of the bishops are taken into account to ensure stability, justice and national cohesion.
The situation in DR Congo is attracting the attention of the international community, which hopes that the country can build a better future, while respecting moral values and democratic principles.
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