Less than three weeks before the start of the electoral campaign, the city of Idiofa, located in the province of Kwilu, is already in turmoil. Candidates and political parties compete to attract voters and gain their support.
The city’s main thoroughfares are now adorned with posters, banners and flags of the different political parties. A real battle of electoral propaganda has begun, with candidates working to promote their political messages through various means of communication.
However, this early electoral competition has already generated tensions within the population. Clashes between young supporters of some candidates were reported, disrupting public order in the region. Local civil society, represented by Arsène Kasiama, coordinator of the new civil society of Idiofa, calls for immediate measures to enforce the electoral law and prevent any excesses.
Indeed, some candidates did not wait for the official start of the campaign to begin their promotion. They have already placed their effigies along the main arteries and have spoken in the local media to present their programs and projects. This haste in the electoral campaign is strongly deplored by civil society, which warns of the risks of unrest and disorder.
The situation observed in Idiofa is also repeated in other towns in Kwilu province, such as Bandundu-Ville and Kikwit. The race for voters seems to have started well before its time.
It is essential that candidates respect the rules established by the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) and wait for the date scheduled for the official launch of the campaign. This will ensure a more fair and peaceful electoral process.
It remains to be hoped that the competent authorities will be able to take the necessary measures to enforce the electoral law and prevent any disturbance of public order. Voters must also exercise discernment and critical thinking to choose candidates who best represent their interests and aspirations.
In short, the electoral competition in Idiofa and in the province of Kwilu is already well underway, arousing both enthusiasm and tensions. It is crucial that political actors act responsibly and respect electoral rules to ensure fair and democratic elections.