The security of the 2023 elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is a major concern for the Congolese government. This is what emerges from the discussions of the Forum of Stakeholders in the Electoral Process, which was held recently in Kinshasa.
The participants, including political parties, civil society, the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) and the Constitutional Court, stressed that the security crisis in the east of the country is a serious threat to the conduct of the elections. Armed groups and negative forces, such as the Rwandan-backed M23, continue to cause trouble in this region.
However, security problems are not limited to eastern DRC. Similar challenges are also present in the west, with the Mobondo phenomenon, and in Kinshasa, with the kidnappings. This widespread instability risks compromising the ongoing electoral process.
In addition to security challenges, another aspect to which the Forum has given particular attention is disinformation and hate speech. The spread of false information and speech inciting violence can heighten tensions and jeopardize the electoral process. Participants were made aware of the importance of combating this disinformation and promoting a healthy and respectful political debate.
It is therefore essential that the Congolese government mobilize substantial resources to ensure the security of the upcoming elections. Measures must be taken to counter the activity of armed groups, strengthen the security forces and prevent kidnappings and other acts of violence. In addition, efforts should be made to counter misinformation and promote transparency in the electoral process.
The Forum of Stakeholders in the Electoral Process was an important opportunity to highlight these concerns and mobilize key actors to address security and information challenges