The decision taken by the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) to postpone the elections of urban councilors, mayors and deputy mayors of municipalities in the Democratic Republic of Congo has sparked strong reactions within the Regard Citoyen electoral observation mission. This organization expresses its concern about the consequences of this postponement on the decentralization process, democracy and local governance in the country.
Indeed, the indefinite postponement of these elections raises questions about the coherence and continuity of the current electoral calendar. The MOE Regard Citoyen underlines that this delay compromises the dynamic initiated by the elections of municipal councilors which followed the general elections of December 2023. The non-holding of the elections of mayors could also generate tensions within local institutions, allowing an imbalance between elected municipal councilors and unelected mayors.
It is essential that the government and the CENI find solutions to overcome the financial obstacles which hinder the organization of these elections. Emphasis must be placed on transparency and efficiency in the establishment of a new electoral calendar giving priority to the election of mayors to ensure stability and local governance.
In this context, it is essential that the authorities concerned demonstrate responsibility and commitment to the democratic process in the DRC. Citizens have the right to expect concrete actions to guarantee free, fair and transparent elections, reflecting the democratic will of the Congolese people.
In summary, the current situation calls for vigilance and mobilization of all actors involved in the electoral process to face the challenges and guarantee the holding of local elections as soon as possible, while respecting the rule of law and of democracy in the DRC.