Title: The challenges of organizing the next elections in the DRC
Introduction :
The organization of elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is a major challenge for the country’s democracy. Recently, the President of the National and Independent Electoral Commission (CENI), Denis KADIMA KAZADI, met with Bernard QUINTIN, Director General of the European Service for External Action of the European Union (EU), to discuss the challenges related to the organization of the next elections, scheduled for December 20, 2023. This article highlights the main topics discussed during this meeting and underlines the importance of inclusiveness in the electoral process.
Compliance with the electoral calendar and inclusiveness:
During the meeting, Denis KADIMA KAZADI reassured Bernard QUINTIN as to the respect of the electoral calendar. Indeed, with less than six months before the elections, it becomes essential to guarantee that all the stages of the electoral process take place within the stipulated deadlines. The CENI President also stressed the importance of inclusiveness, inviting opposition leaders to participate in discussions on contentious issues. This approach aims to foster a climate of trust and ensure the transparency of future elections.
Questions discussed during the meeting:
Among the topics raised during the interview between Denis KADIMA KAZADI and Bernard QUINTIN, several key questions were addressed. First of all, there was a question of the electoral calendar and its implementation. It is essential to ensure that all stages, such as the establishment of electoral lists and the opening of candidate offices, are carried out on time. In addition, the issue of election observation was discussed, with the importance of guaranteeing independent and transparent observation to ensure the credibility of the results.
Issues and importance of the electoral process:
The organization of elections in the DRC is of capital importance for the stability and democracy of the country. These elections give the Congolese people a voice and guarantee respect for their political choices. In this context, it is essential that the elections are free, transparent and inclusive, in accordance with international standards. This is a guarantee of confidence for the population and for the international community, which will be attentive to the smooth running of this electoral process.
Conclusion :
The recent meeting between the President of the CENI, Denis KADIMA KAZADI, and the Director General of the European Service for External Action of the EU, Bernard QUINTIN, highlights the challenges and issues related to the organization of elections in the DRC . Compliance with the electoral calendar, inclusiveness and transparency are crucial elements to ensure the credibility of the elections. The international community, in particular the EU, is following these developments closely and hopes that the elections scheduled for December 2023 will take place in a favorable climate, thus allowing the Congolese people to choose their representatives democratically.