Fatshimetrie: A New Dynamic in the Upper House of Parliament in the Democratic Republic of Congo
In a constantly evolving political context in the Democratic Republic of Congo, a new dynamic has been observed in the Upper House of Parliament. The offices of nine permanent commissions and the Conciliation and Arbitration Committee now display a complete composition, following validation by the plenary assembly at the People’s Palace in Kinshasa, the Congolese capital.
During a decisive plenary session, provincial elected officials adopted the bureau’s proposal concerning the distribution of positions within these commissions, taking into account the political forces present. After a 48-hour period given to political groups and provincial groups to present their candidates, the composition of the offices was adjusted to best reflect the skills, gender and representation of the different provinces.
The Speaker of the Upper House of Parliament, Jean-Michel Sama Lukonde Kyenge, stressed that adjustments have been made in the composition of certain standing committees following the ambitions expressed by the candidates.
Thus, the composition of the offices of the Standing Committees was revealed, reflecting significant political and regional diversity. Parties such as the UDPS, AFDC and Allies, Bâtissons le Congo, Les Acteurs, Les Rénovateurs, and many others, are represented through the various positions of presidents, vice-presidents, rapporteurs and deputy rapporteurs.
This new configuration of the standing committees and the Conciliation and Arbitration Committee paves the way for a parliamentary session mainly focused on budgetary issues for the year 2024. With offices now fully functional, the Chamber of Sages is ready to convene the Conference of Presidents of the Senate to adopt the work schedule for this session.
This distribution of positions within the committees is part of a desire to ensure a balanced representation of the different political actors and provinces, while highlighting the skills and experience of each elected official. This diversity within the committee offices promises to enrich parliamentary debates and promote informed and collective decision-making on the major issues facing the Democratic Republic of Congo.
In conclusion, the establishment of these new standing committee offices marks a turning point in the functioning of the Upper House of the Congolese Parliament, reflecting a desire to strengthen democracy, transparency and efficiency at the heart of the country’s political decision-making processes.