Fatshimetrie, a leading news magazine in the Democratic Republic of Congo, recently highlighted a political affair of crucial importance. The Center for Research in Public Finance and Local Development (CREFDL) published a scathing press release accusing the National Assembly of violating its own operating rules in the context of the motion of no confidence against the Minister in charge of infrastructure and public works, Alexis Gisaro.
According to the CREFDL, since the filing of the motion of no confidence on November 22, until the closing of the parliamentary session on December 15, no serious examination was carried out. However, the internal rules of the National Assembly require a period of forty-eight hours between the filing of a motion of no confidence and its actual debate and vote.
The withdrawal of certain signatures and the withdrawals of deputies who signed the motion were also denounced by the CREFDL as a violation of established procedures. These shortcomings raise concerns about the effectiveness of parliamentary oversight of government action, particularly on major projects such as “Kinshasa zero hole” and “Tshilejelu”.
The slow progress in implementing these projects, despite substantial funding, is fueling questions among the Congolese population, particularly those living in Kinshasa. The disorder observed within the National Assembly in recent days calls into question its ability to ensure effective oversight of government actions, particularly when it involves members of the cabinet involved in sensitive matters.
The reaction of the Bureau of the National Assembly, as highlighted by the CREFDL, suggests fears about the future of this parliamentary oversight action. There is a fear that this motion of no confidence will be simply buried, leaving the Minister of Infrastructure and Public Works to escape any sanction.
It is essential that the government respond transparently and responsibly to the criticisms leveled at it. Members of Parliament are elected to represent the interests of the people and ensure that public funds are used appropriately. Any failure in this parliamentary oversight weakens citizens’ trust in their institutions and risks compromising the country’s economic and social development.
In conclusion, the current situation calls for firm and determined action by the Congolese authorities to ensure transparency and accountability in the management of public affairs. The stakes are too high to be neglected, and it is imperative that democratic institutions fulfill their mission of oversight and accountability.