Title: The electoral process in the DRC: the CENI responds to the concerns of the opposition
Introduction :
The Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) in the Democratic Republic of Congo recently responded to the concerns of opposition leaders about the ongoing electoral process. In a statement published on July 10, the CENI addressed the issue of the external audit of the electoral register, raised by the opposition. This article examines the CENI’s response and the reactions of opposition leaders.
The context of the external audit of the electoral register:
The opposition in the DRC demanded an external audit of the electoral register and recommended that it be carried out by an independent and qualified international body. However, according to the CENI, this external audit is not a legal or regulatory requirement in the country. It considers it rather as a calendar practice aimed at guaranteeing transparency in the constitution of the electoral register and the various related operations. The CENI stressed that it had already undergone an external audit and that no serious argument called into question the conclusions of this mission.
The reaction of the opposition:
The CENI’s response was poorly received by the Congolese opposition, in particular by leader Martin Fayulu. The latter expressed his dissatisfaction with what he considers to be an attempt at electoral fraud on the part of the CENI. In a post on social media, Fayulu said the Congolese were not Panurge’s sheep and would not let the CENI carry out further electoral fraud.
The next steps :
Faced with this tense situation, Martin Fayulu announced that he would speak to the press to share his point of view on the ongoing electoral process. It is essential to follow the developments of this case carefully, as it could have significant repercussions on the political and electoral landscape in the DRC.
Conclusion :
The question of the external audit of the electoral register continues to divide political actors in the DRC. While the opposition insists on the need for a new audit, the CENI argues that this is not a legal requirement and could disrupt the smooth running of the electoral process. It remains to be seen how this controversy will be resolved and what consequences this will have on the upcoming elections in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.