General elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo are scheduled for December 20, 2023, and the Secular Coordination Committee (CLC) expressed its concerns at a press conference. The spokesperson for the CLC, Emery Lukomb, underlined the concern about the social misery of the Congolese population, which risks being exploited by the highest bidders during the electoral campaign.
Lukomb warned that voters could become prisoners of the promises made by candidates and neglect their vital needs to solve their daily livelihood problems. He therefore called on the population to remain vigilant and not let their electoral needs take precedence over their essential needs.
The CLC also praised the work carried out by the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) and the Constitutional Court when handling electoral disputes. He expressed the hope that this “good work” would continue until the end of the electoral process.
However, the CLC expressed concern about the persistence of insecurity in several regions of the DRC, particularly in the east of the country, where war and militia activism rage.
These concerns of the CLC underline the importance of ensuring that elections in the DRC take place in fair and transparent conditions, taking into account the needs and concerns of the population.
In a context where the socio-economic situation is worrying and where security remains fragile, it is essential to guarantee the free and informed participation of citizens in elections, without them being influenced by opportunistic promises. Rulers and candidates must demonstrate responsibility and transparency in the conduct of the electoral process, in order to rebuild the confidence of the Congolese people in their representatives.
In conclusion, the holding of general elections in the DRC is a major issue for the future of the country. The CLC warns against potential abuses and calls for vigilance from the population. It is necessary to meet the vital needs of the population while guaranteeing a fair and transparent electoral process.