Effective preventive measures have just been put in place to stop any spread of violence and hatred during the electoral period in Masi-manimba. The administrator of the territory, Emery Kanguma, recently brought together the various local media houses in order to raise their awareness and actively involve them in maintaining a peaceful climate.
This initiative, deployed ahead of the electoral process, aims to establish a culture of responsibility within the local media. Indeed, during an interview with Actualité.cd, Emery Kanguma stressed the importance of preventing any act of violence or hate speech, and warned media professionals of the possible sanctions incurred in the event of the dissemination of inciting content.
The autopsy carried out following the cancellation of the elections in Masi-manimba highlighted the leading role of local media in the unrest that occurred last December. Aware of this reality, the President of the Territorial Security Council has taken drastic measures to avoid a repeat of these harmful events. Thus, any media relaying messages inciting hatred or violence will be immediately closed, and the individuals responsible will be apprehended.
Emery Kanguma recalled that the press had contributed significantly to the violence that occurred during previous elections, by spreading destructive and false messages. He mentioned cases where local media had broadcast calls for violence based on false information, thus inciting the population to take part in acts of vandalism.
The electoral period of December 2023 marked a turning point in the electoral history of the DRC, with the territory of Masi-manimba at the heart of concerns. Acts of vandalism, fraud and violence that led to the cancellation of the polls have pushed the authorities to take radical measures to ensure peaceful and transparent elections.
In conclusion, sensitizing local media and warning against hateful and violent speeches represent crucial steps in preserving peace and democracy in Masi-manimba. By encouraging objectivity and accountability, these actions help to create a climate conducive to free and fair elections, without compromising security and social cohesion.