The general elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo scheduled for December 20 are arousing keen interest from political actors and civil society. The Electoral Commission recently held a series of consultations with stakeholders to discuss preparations for the electoral process.
During these consultations, more than 900 political parties and groups were invited to express their concerns and expectations regarding the elections. Civil society, for its part, was also involved in these discussions, in order to guarantee a balanced representation of all the actors involved in the process.
A wide range of topics were covered during these consultations, including the publication of electoral lists, the location of polling stations, accreditations of witnesses, observers and journalists, as well as voting and counting procedures, including the use of the voting machine.
The main objective of the Electoral Commission is to provide stakeholders with maximum information and transparency about the electoral process. Similar consultations are planned in the coming weeks, particularly before the start of the electoral campaign scheduled for November 19.
However, some parts of the opposition chose not to participate in these consultations. Martin Fayulu’s party, for example, is requesting a new audit of the electoral register before resuming its participation in the process. Likewise, the camp of former president Joseph Kabila is boycotting the upcoming polls.
Additionally, the Electoral Commission has expressed concerns regarding the financing of the electoral process. Commission President Denis Kadima stressed that the institution continues to operate through bank loans, although this has not yet impacted the electoral calendar. It should be noted that the DRC has not requested help from international donors to release funds for this election.
In conclusion, consultations between the Electoral Commission and stakeholders constitute an essential step in the preparation of general elections in the DRC. However, the participation of some parts of the opposition and concerns over funding highlight the challenges the country faces in its journey towards free and transparent elections.