Democratic Republic of Congo Releases Provisional Election Results
Early Results Released Amid Controversy
Democratic Republic of Congo has released early results from its general elections, following an unscheduled day-long ballot extension that has sparked controversy and allegations of foul play from some opposition candidates.
Provisional Results Show Comfortable Lead for President Tshisekedi
The provisional results from the few thousand voters in the Congolese diaspora indicate President Felix Tshisekedi holding a comfortable lead over his challengers. The election commission, CENI, stated that results from the 44 million registered voters within Congo will be released from Saturday.
Challenges and Criticisms of the Election Process
The electoral process faced challenges, with delays in delivering election kits and malfunctioning equipment. Additionally, voters encountered difficulties finding their names on registers, and violence disrupted the poll in various areas.
Call for New Election and Concerns Over Credibility
Disputed elections have historically led to unrest in the country. The extended voting period prompted five opposition presidential candidates to call for a new election, citing unconstitutional grounds. The lack of confidence in the process, along with gaps in transparency, has raised concerns about the credibility of the results.
Transparency and Credibility Demands
There have been demands for transparency in the election process. The CENI set up a results center called Basolo in Kinshasa, where results from each polling station will be publicly shared. The Carter Center has also emphasized the need for posting results at a local level and uploading polling station results to the commission’s website.
Logistical Setbacks and Observations
The logistical setbacks on election day have been a point of contention. The observation mission from the Congo’s Catholic Church has deployed over 25,000 observers to compile their own election results, reflecting the deep-seated concerns about the credibility of the process.
Implications for the Future
The outcome of the election will determine whether President Tshisekedi serves a second term, amid economic hardship and insecurity in the country’s east. The tumultuous election day capped a campaign marred by violence, further adding to the complexity of the situation.
