**Title: Democratic Republic of Congo Legislative Elections: A Controversial Validation Raises Questions About Transparency**
January 20, 2025 marked a crucial day for the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), as the Constitutional Court confirmed the results of the legislative elections in the constituencies of Yakoma and Masimanimba. This long-awaited ruling did not simply formalize the election of national deputies: it also highlighted the deep concerns that persist around the transparency and reliability of the electoral process.
### Context of the election
The December 2024 legislative elections had already been marked by tumultuous events, including allegations of electoral fraud, destruction of electoral materials, and violence targeting agents of the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI). These incidents led the commission to annul the initial results and call new elections on 15 December 2024. However, the reorganization of the elections did not ease tensions; on the contrary, it amplified doubts about the integrity of democratic processes in the country.
### A final decision
The Constitutional Court’s decision, which rejected eight petitions challenging the results, provoked mixed reactions. Some saw it as a consolidation of the existing power, while others argued that judicial decisions must be respected to ensure stability. However, it is troubling to note that these petitions have not found an echo, and the court has highlighted the lack of tangible evidence regarding the reported irregularities.
The elected MPs, namely Mbui Kaya Nyi Mbui Guido and Koyibe Koyaabakele Maximilien in Yakoma, and Didier Mazenga, Jean Kamisendu, Tryphon Kin-Kiey, Donald Sindani and Paul Delacroix Luwansangu in Masimanimba, find themselves in a delicate position. Their legitimacy is already undermined by the controversial context that preceded their election.
### A look at the socio-political impact
The importance of these elections lies not only in the choice of representatives, but also in the broader impact they have on the political landscape and public confidence in the state. Voter turnout and recent opinion polls show that distrust in institutions is growing. A recent survey conducted by Fatshimetrie.org revealed that nearly 68% of Congolese believe that elections in the DRC are unreliable. This alarming figure highlights a deep malaise within the population and raises the question of the viability of future elections.
### Comparison with other electoral systems in Africa
Comparing the political situation in the DRC with other African countries can provide valuable insight. For example, in Kenya, after the electoral fraud of 2017, the country implemented electoral reforms that improved the transparency of the process. Conversely, the confirmation of results in the DRC without adequate response to allegations of fraud draws criticism for the lack of such reformist will. The need for independent monitoring mechanisms and greater participation of civil society is therefore crucial.
### The role of the media and civil society
Covering elections and judicial decisions is equally essential to maintaining a healthy democracy. The media, like Fatshimetrie.org, should engage in in-depth and critical reporting on electoral processes. Their role as guardians of information and integrity is indispensable, especially in a climate where disinformation can easily infiltrate. Similarly, mobilizing civil society to monitor elections and demand transparency can provide a necessary balance to political institutions.
### Conclusion
While the results of the Yakoma and Masimanimba elections have now been validated by the Constitutional Court, the path to a true and functioning democracy remains fraught with pitfalls. The DRC faces significant challenges in terms of governance and public belief in its institutions. To reap the benefits of a healthy democratic process, deep reforms are urgent. The fight for electoral integrity must not stop after an election. It must be an ongoing commitment, supported by an active civil society and independent media. The country’s political future depends on it.