News in the DRC: the opposition struggles to agree on a common candidacy
Less than a month before elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the opposition is facing difficulties in reaching an agreement on a joint candidacy against outgoing President Félix Tshisekedi. Despite several attempts to bring things together, no consensus has been reached so far.
Among the main opposition candidates, we find Moise Katumbi, presented as a potential challenger to Tshisekedi, Martin Fayulu, Delly Sesanga and Denis Mukwege. However, following the lack of agreement in Pretoria during discussions on a joint candidacy, each candidate is continuing their own electoral campaign.
According to Olivier Kamitatu, chief of staff and spokesperson for Moise Katumbi, contacts are continuing with a view to a possible joint candidacy. However, time is running out, with the election campaign already underway for a week and ending on December 18.
The failure of the discussions in Pretoria revealed the divisions within the opposition and underlined the need for consensus to present a united front against Félix Tshisekedi. Martin Fayulu’s delegates were excluded from the work from the start, following tensions and disagreements. Some also criticized Fayulu for having made insulting remarks against them.
Despite these obstacles, the desire for a rally and a common candidacy remains present within the opposition. Contacts continue between the different candidates and the leaders of the political parties in order to find a solution.
It is essential for the opposition to achieve this unity in order to present a credible alternative and maximize its chances of success in the presidential elections. Faced with the popularity of Félix Tshisekedi and his ability to bring together different linguistic groups in the country, it is crucial for the opposition to present a united and coherent front.
The race for the presidency in the DRC therefore remains open, with a divided opposition and an intense political battle in sight. The coming weeks will be decisive for the formation of a common candidacy and for the political future of the country. The stakes are high, and only time will tell if the opposition will manage to overcome its differences and present a solid candidate to face Félix Tshisekedi in the elections.