DR Congo Election Turmoil: Opposition Protest Banned

In a move that has stirred political turmoil in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the government has enforced a ban on an opposition protest, which was intended to voice concerns over alleged discrepancies in the recent national elections. The protest, led by five opposition presidential candidates, was scheduled for Wednesday, following the release of preliminary results signifying incumbent President Felix Tshisekedi’s lead.

Government’s Stance on the Protest

The government declared the protest as illegal, asserting that it lacks a legal foundation and is seen as a disruptive act against the ongoing electoral process. The announcement was made by Vice Prime Minister Peter Kazadi, who stated that no government could tolerate such a challenge to its electoral process. The protest organizers have yet to respond to the ban, which risks escalating existing tensions resulting from the presidential and legislative vote on December 20.

Questionable Election Process

The election period has been fraught with confusion and violence, including delays in the delivery of election equipment, malfunctioning machines, and chaotic voter registration. The CENI election commission’s decision to extend voting at certain polling stations was met with criticism from the protest organizers, who are also advocating for a total re-run of the election. Observers have voiced concerns that extended voting may have compromised the credibility of the election, although the CENI has dismissed these claims.

Current Election Results

With 80% of the approximate 2.8 million votes counted, Tshisekedi is leading, but the CENI has refrained from sharing details about voter turnout or the proportion of total votes counted. Moise Katumbi, another presidential candidate, has resonated with the concerns of the protest organizers, calling for the CENI head to step down. The ban on the protest and the unfolding political tension mark a critical point in determining whether President Tshisekedi will secure a second term in office.