Questions relating to the security situation and electoral preparations in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have been at the heart of political discussions for several weeks. It is in this context that the DRC’s ambassador to Benelux and to the European Union, Christian Ndongala Nkuku, recently took part in a meeting at the European Parliament in Brussels to discuss the situation.
The security situation in the DRC, particularly in the east of the country, was discussed during this meeting. Although the Congolese diplomat welcomed the ceasefire agreements reached recently, he also pointed out that the rebel group M-23 had just started a new offensive. He called for the participation of the international community, in this case the European Union, in this fight against the armed groups which continue to destabilize the DRC.
With regard to the electoral process which is being prepared in the DRC, the ambassador paid tribute to the work done by the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI). He particularly welcomed the removal of more than three million people from the country’s electoral lists for various reasons. He also mentioned the enrollment of displaced people in refugee camps as well as that of Congolese in the diaspora in five pilot countries. To ensure the credibility of the elections, the Congolese diplomat proposed to MEPs the creation of a support mission for the ongoing electoral process.
The humanitarian situation in Kalehe, in South Kivu, was also discussed during this meeting. The results of this situation are worrying, with nearly 600 dead and more than 5,000 missing. Aid has been allocated to the survivors, but it would seem that the support of the European Union has not yet intervened.
Security and electoral issues are crucial for the future of the DRC. It is therefore important that not only the Congolese government but also the international community mobilize to guarantee the security and fairness of the elections in the country. The European Union’s contribution, through adequate measures and effective support, will be a key factor for the DRC’s progress towards political stability and economic development.