The consultation framework organized by the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) as well as the meeting of opposition delegates in South Africa have recently attracted attention in the Democratic Republic of Congo. At the heart of this news, Augustin Matata Ponyo, presidential candidate, spoke on several aspects of this situation.
Guest on Radio Okapi, Augustin Matata first emphasized that the CENI had confirmed the holding of presidential elections on December 20, 2023. However, he expressed his concerns about the chaotic context in which these elections will take place.
According to Mr. Matata, the credibility of the CENI is at its lowest, in particular due to the use of an electoral law which has not been endorsed by the opposition and the absence of audit of the electoral register by a competent international structure. These elements call into question the integrity and transparency of the electoral process.
The presidential candidate also addressed the meeting of opposition delegates in South Africa. He underlined the importance of this initiative in order to achieve a single opposition candidacy for the presidential election. This approach aims to strengthen the unity of the opposition and present a common front against the power in place.
Augustin Matata also spoke of the challenges facing the country, such as the worrying security situation in certain regions and economic difficulties. He called for collective awareness and the implementation of concrete measures to guarantee free and fair elections, as well as a better future for the Congolese population.
Overall, Augustin Matata Ponyo’s statements highlight the concerns and issues related to the electoral process in the Democratic Republic of Congo. They also underline the need for active and committed participation of all political actors to guarantee transparent and democratic elections, as well as a promising future for the country.