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The United States called on the electoral authorities in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to be transparent in announcing the results of the elections. While doing so, the US authorities have referred to the missed deadlines in announcing results in 2019
The United States called on the electoral authorities in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to be transparent in announcing the results of the elections. While doing so, the US authorities have referred to the missed deadlines in announcing results in 2019.
In the last elections held in December 2018 elections, the electoral commission said it would announce the results on January 6. But it got delayed. On January 10, the election commission announced the results and declared Félix Tshisekedi the winner. His opponent Martin Fayulu then alleged fraudulent activities while conducting elections.
The US said that additional measures to ensure the transparency of the electoral process, including clear information on when and how results will be published, would help build confidence. It also called on all parties and candidates to do their part in promoting free and fair elections, with a peaceful and credible process. It also urged the government to maintain freedom of expression.
Reports indicate that some 44 million voters in the DRC will cast their votes. The Central African country has around 100 million people. Some 75,000 polling stations have been opened in this immense Central African country, which is almost devoid of road infrastructure. However, given the DRC’s violent political past, these elections marked the country’s first peaceful changeover. This year, campaigning took place in relative calm.
In the meantime, the Democratic Republic of Congo declined to authorize satellite equipment for European Union election observers, expressing concerns that it could be utilized to manipulate the upcoming presidential poll later this month. Government sources pointed out that some organizations come with technology that could effectively penetrate the electronic system of the CENI (Independent National Electoral Commission) and be able to manipulate the election results. In an unexpected move on November 29, the EU called off its electoral mission to the central African nation, citing technical issues.
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The government, acknowledging its regret over the cancellation of the observation mission, faced criticism as several officials revealed that the decision was a result of a prolonged request for permits for satellite equipment. Congolese civil society, the US-based Carter Center, and the 16-nation Southern African Development Community will observe the election on December 20th.
