KINSHASA: The Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) witnessed voting on Wednesday, marked by delays, chaos, and opposition leaders decrying irregularities. The contest pits incumbent President Felix Tshisekedi against a fragmented opposition, with prominent figures denouncing disorder in the electoral process.
The first polling stations opened on time in the east of the vast central African nation, but by midday, voting had not started in some regions due to technical issues with machines and batteries. The archbishop of Kinshasa, Fridolin Ambongo, expressed concerns about the problems faced by polling centers, urging swift solutions to prevent prolonged disruptions.
In various regions, including the capital Kinshasa and cities like Goma, Beni, Lubumbashi, and Tshikapa, delays and disorder were reported. Leading opposition candidates, including Moise Katumbi, Martin Fayulu, and Nobel Peace Prize winner Denis Mukwege, criticized what they described as total chaos and a lack of organization during the voting process. Fayulu, claiming victory in the 2018 election, emphasized the need for immediate solutions to rectify the situation.
Tshisekedi, seeking a second five-year term, faced criticism from opponents who accused him of presiding over a disorganized election. The incumbent has cited economic growth during his tenure but faces challenges of job creation and inflation. Tshisekedi labeled some opposition candidates as “foreign,” suggesting dual loyalties and insinuating a lack of resistance against alleged external influences, particularly from Rwanda.
Armed Conflict Casts Shadow Over DR Congo Elections
The electoral campaign was overshadowed by armed conflict in the eastern part of the country, with militias and rebel groups contributing to tensions. The M23 group captured territory in late 2021, reigniting hostilities in the region. Clashes with M23 fighters persist in North Kivu province, preventing citizens in affected areas from participating in the vote.
Despite the challenges, citizens expressed determination to fulfill their civic duty. In Beni, North Kivu province, farmer Lucie Zawadi voiced optimism that the elections would bring positive change, while acknowledging the significance of participating in the democratic process. However, concerns lingered among voters, with many anticipating potential problems once results are announced.
Voters still in line by 5:00 pm were provided tokens, and polling booths remained open until all cast their votes, as reported by an official from the electoral commission. Counting is set to begin after the closure of polling stations, with results expected in the coming days. The election, with over 100,000 candidates running for various positions, holds significant implications for the political landscape of the DRC, Africa’s top copper producer and the world’s largest producer of cobalt.
