**Masi-Manimba: An electoral page closes, but the future of the constituency remains uncertain**
The Constitutional Court validated, in December 2024, the results of the legislative elections in the constituency of Masi-Manimba, thus putting an end to months of political tension. Five seats were filled, and all were won by men, representing the Sacred Union. This vote, although entirely legal, raises the crucial question of the representation and expectations of the citizens of Masi-Manimba, a territory that desperately yearns for tangible changes.
**An alarming observation on the representation of women**
The total absence of female candidates proclaimed during these elections is a worrying reflection of the state of parity and inclusiveness in politics, particularly in regions like Masi-Manimba. While several African countries have put in place quotas or incentive laws to guarantee the representation of women, Masi-Manimba seems to be lagging behind. In a society where women often represent the backbone of communities, their absence from legislative benches raises questions about the attention they receive in public policymaking.
In 2020, the Global Gender Gap Index ranked the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) among the bottom countries in terms of parity. But the modern era demands inclusive leaders who can understand and represent the diversity of their population. The election of predominantly male figures could accentuate inequalities within a constituency already beset by robust challenges.
**The Sacred Union: Majority or Monopoly?**
There is no denying that the Sacred Union, the political party of President Félix Tshisekedi, has managed to establish itself as a dominant force in this region. However, to say that this represents a victory for democracy would be reductive. Can the ability of the Union Sacrée to maintain a majority position really translate into concrete benefits for the people of Masi-Manimba? Previous mandates have shown that a majority does not always guarantee the effectiveness of the actions undertaken.
The first words of the newly elected Didier Mazenga Mukanzu, who obtained the most votes with 13,833, will have to be followed by actions. The expectations of the voters, such as the development of infrastructure, access to drinking water, electricity and quality education, are urgent. If these elected officials fail to unite around a common program, the failure could be disastrous. History has already shown that division, even within the same majority, often leads to inefficiency.
**A call for unity and action**
Gauthier Atumbila and Cédric Kayudi, two residents of Masi-Manimba, expressed legitimate desires for future governance. Their call for greater unity among elected officials is crucial. Without a united front to carry the voices of their fellow citizens, the realities of the residents could be ignored. The challenges cited—infrastructure, access to water and electricity—are not mere wishful thinking; they represent daily struggles for many.
Statistically, infrastructure development in similar areas has shown that countries that invest in basic services also see improvements in living standards and a reduction in poverty. For example, a World Bank study found that improved access to clean water could reduce infant mortality by up to 30%. In this context, the elected officials of Masi-Manimba have an enormous responsibility: to make the voice of their constituency heard not only in Kinshasa, but also internationally.
**Towards a constructive future?**
To conclude, the closing of this electoral page should not be seen as a landing point, but as the beginning of a renewed commitment to the future of Masi-Manimba. Unity among elected officials, the inclusion of women in the political process and strong advocacy for key issues are elements to be cherished. The inhabitants have shown their desire for change for their territory. It is now up to their new representatives to transform this momentum into a beneficial reality for Masi-Manimba.
Between now and the next elections, it will be interesting to monitor the evolution of the political landscape and the actions undertaken by these elected officials, because the true transformation of a constituency is based not only on promises, but above all on concrete actions serving the common good. Without this, the risk of returning to old habits of division and loss of trust remains omnipresent, something that the citizens of Masi-Manimba cannot tolerate.