Title: Candidate reception offices in Goma: a step towards an inclusive electoral process in North Kivu
Introduction :
As part of the preparation for the elections in North Kivu, Julien Paluku, member of the government and researcher in the management of armed conflicts, strongly supports the opening of the Offices for the Reception and Processing of Candidatures (BRTC) in Goma. This measure aims to allow the registration of candidates from the territories of Rutshuru and Masisi, currently under occupation by the M23 rebels supported by Rwanda. In this article, we will explore the reasons why this initiative is important to defuse the political situation in the province of North Kivu.
Describing the tense political situation:
The political situation in North Kivu has been tense since the establishment of a state of siege more than two years ago. The mixed results of this measure arouse tensions and discontent among the population. By opening the BRTCs in Goma, Julien Paluku believes that this would help ease the political situation by allowing the registration of candidates from the territories of Rutshuru and Masisi. This measure could bring a sense of hope to local populations, guaranteeing them equal treatment in the electoral process.
Preliminary registration of competitors:
Although the registration of voters has not yet taken place, nothing prevents the preliminary registration of competitors in the BRTC of Goma. This step would be a positive sign for the populations of the occupied territories, showing them that they are included in the electoral process and that there is no scheme aimed at excluding them. It is important to point out that the law on the distribution of seats has already fixed the number of seats for Rutshuru and Masisi, which makes the registration of candidates essential to ensure the political representation of these territories.
Julien Paluku’s proposals to restore peace:
Julien Paluku published a series of proposals aimed at restoring peace and security in North Kivu and Ituri, two provinces under siege. These proposals were the subject of a three-day round table in Kinshasa, bringing together representatives of different political, governmental and civil society entities. The opening of the BRTCs in Goma is one of these initiatives, highlighting the importance of an inclusive and peaceful approach to solving security problems in the region.
Conclusion :
The opening of the BRTCs in Goma to register candidates from the territories of Rutshuru and Masisi would mark an important step towards a more inclusive electoral process in North Kivu. This measure would help ease the tense political situation in the province and bring a sense of hope to the local populations.. Julien Paluku’s proposals and the holding of the round table in Kinshasa testify to the desire to find peaceful solutions to restore peace and security in the region. With these initiatives, we can hope for a better future for North Kivu and its inhabitants