Title: The exclusion of former warlords from the Provincial Assembly of Ituri: an important decision for Congolese democracy
Introduction :
Ituri, a province located in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo, has experienced numerous tensions and armed conflicts in recent years. Among those involved in this violence were former warlords, including Thomas Lubanga and Kahwa Mandro. However, despite their provisional election to the Ituri Provincial Assembly, the Independent National Electoral Commission recently took the decision to exclude them from this institution due to their controversial pasts. This decision marks an important step towards the consolidation of Congolese democracy and the promotion of more transparent and accountable governance.
I. Material errors and the CENI’s decision:
The Independent National Electoral Commission admitted having made material errors during the publication of the provisional results of the provincial legislative elections, by proclaiming Thomas Lubanga and Kahwa Mandro elected. These errors were identified thanks to a judgment of the Constitutional Court rendered following disputes over candidacies for national legislative elections. According to this ruling, people convicted of war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide are permanently ineligible, in accordance with Congolese electoral law.
II. The controversial careers of Thomas Lubanga and Kahwa Mandro:
Thomas Lubanga, former leader of the Union of Congolese Patriots (UPC), has been convicted by the International Criminal Court for war crimes related to the conscription and enlistment of child soldiers. After serving 14 years in prison, he was released in 2020. As for Kahwa Mandro, a member of the Congo Liberation Movement (MLC), he was convicted by the military court of Orientale Province for several crimes, including beatings. and intentional wounding, assassination, participation in an insurrectional movement and possession of weapons of war.
III. The consequences and implications for Congolese democracy:
The CENI’s decision to exclude Thomas Lubanga and Kahwa Mandro from the Ituri Provincial Assembly sends a strong message in favor of the consolidation of democracy in the Democratic Republic of Congo. It underlines the importance of respecting the fundamental principles of democracy such as the rule of law and the fight against impunity. By excluding candidates convicted of war crimes, the CENI also strengthens the credibility of Congolese democratic institutions and promotes the emergence of a more virtuous political class respectful of human rights.
Conclusion :
The exclusion of Thomas Lubanga and Kahwa Mandro from the Ituri Provincial Assembly constitutes a crucial step in the promotion of democracy in the Democratic Republic of Congo. It demonstrates the desire of the Independent National Electoral Commission to establish transparent and fair electoral processes. By making this decision, the CENI sends a clear message: there is no place for convicted former warlords in the country’s democratic institutions. This decision raises hope for a better future for Ituri, based on justice, peace and democracy.