The election of the governor and vice-governor of the Kongo Central province in the Democratic Republic of Congo continues to cause turmoil and twists and turns, following the REA 421 ruling of the Council of State of May 24. This decision ordered the organization of a new ballot within sixty days, following irregularities noted during the previous ballot.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) recently unveiled a new timetable setting the date of this new election as Friday June 7, 2024, with an electoral campaign period scheduled for June 3 to 5, 2024. The aim is to ensure an electoral process fair, transparent and credible for the population of Kongo Central province.
The initial election was marred by controversy, particularly around the result proclaiming Grace Nkuanga Bilolo as governor of the province, to the detriment of Guy Bandu. Videos posted on social networks showed money transactions between provincial deputies during the vote, which had been pointed out by the protesters. The public prosecutor also reported irregularities related to the assistance of electoral agents to provincial deputies during the vote.
This new election therefore represents an opportunity to restore citizens’ confidence in the democratic process. The CENI, in its press release, calls for peaceful electoral competition and urges the various stakeholders to prepare accordingly. It is essential to guarantee the integrity of the electoral process and ensure that the will of the people is respected.
It is essential that the competent authorities act with transparency and accountability so that this election is an example of democracy and fairness. The population of Kongo Central expects its elected representatives to act in the general interest and to work for the development of the province, while respecting democratic rules.
In conclusion, this new election of the governor and vice-governor of the Kongo Central province is a crucial step in the democratic process of the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is up to all stakeholders involved to demonstrate responsibility and integrity to guarantee a transparent and fair election, meeting the expectations of the province’s citizens.