By CHIMPREPORTS
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has barred East African Community (EAC) observers from monitoring the upcoming presidential elections scheduled for December 20, 2023. The EAC Secretariat announced that the DRC authorities did not grant the request for observation, citing the absence of the regional bloc’s physical presence.
The reason behind the decision remains unclear, but it comes in the wake of Kinshasa’s refusal to renew the mandate of the East African Community Regional Force (EACRF), which was deployed to stabilize the eastern part of the country. President Felix Tshisekedi accused the EACRF of inactivity during conflicts with M23 rebels.
Despite being a new member of the EAC, the DRC’s actions suggest a reluctance to align closely with the regional bloc. This election marks the first since the 2018 elections, facilitating the peaceful transition of power from Joseph Kabila to Felix Tshisekedi.
The 2023 general elections in the DRC are seen as a crucial test for the stability of its democratic processes. Over 40 million voters will participate, selecting candidates from more than 100,000 for 1,511 seats. The elections occur amid ongoing conflicts, particularly in North Kivu, where government forces are engaged in battles with M23 rebels.
Notably, at least six candidates, including former Prime Minister Augustin Matata Ponyo, have withdrawn from the presidential race. The voters will choose their president from 20 candidates, including Tshisekedi, Martin Fayulu, Moïse Katumbi, and Dr. Denis Mukwege.
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