The eighth edition of trade union elections for the designation of worker representatives of the National Social Security Fund (CNSS) in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) was held on June 7 in Kinshasa. And it was the Trade Union Confederation of Congo (CSC) that won these elections, with a total of 198 votes. By obtaining 3 seats, the CSC imposed itself against five other trade union organisations.
This victory will allow the CSC to represent the employees of the CNSS with the administration of the company. CSC President Onautshu Osokonda stressed that their main objective is to defend the interests and benefits of CNSS staff. This election marks a new stage in the operation of this public institution responsible for the organization of social security in the DRC.
Created in 1961 as the National Social Security Institute, the CNSS plays a crucial role in the social protection of Congolese workers. The trade union organizations elected during these elections will have a mandate ranging from 2023 to 2026 to represent and defend the rights of CNSS employees.
These union elections are an important step in the process of democratizing the country and promoting workers’ rights. They allow trade unions to organize and make the voice of employees heard, in order to guarantee better working and living conditions for all.
In a context where social and economic issues are numerous in the DRC, it is essential that trade union organizations play an active role in the defense of workers’ rights. The CSC, as the victorious union in these elections, will thus have a unique opportunity to represent and advocate for the interests of CNSS employees.
The road to better social protection and better working conditions in the DRC is still long, but these trade union elections are an important step in this direction. Let’s hope that the elected trade unions will be able to take up the challenge and defend the rights of Congolese workers with determination.