Multiple opposition presidential candidates in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) rejected the provisional election results announced recently, urging their supporters to take action. The results declared incumbent President Felix Tshisekedi as the victor, a decision that sparked widespread dissent among opposition figures.
Martin Fayulu, the leader of the Engagement for Citizenship and Development party, dismissed the declared results as a “farcical,” calling upon his followers to protest according to Article 64 of the DRC Constitution, which obligates citizens to oppose any individuals or groups who seize power by force or violate constitutional provisions. Likewise, Moise Katumbi, the leader of the Together for the Republic party, encouraged peaceful demonstrations against the “sham election.”
The provisional results released by the Independent National Electoral Commission of DRC (CENI), showcased a landslide victory for President Felix Tshisekedi who purportedly secured 73.34 percent of the vote. Coming in second and third were Katumbi with 18 percent and Fayulu with 5 percent of the vote, respectively. Following the release of results, claims against the results must be submitted by opposition candidates within two days, with the constitutional court given seven days for deliberation.
Prior to the results’ announcement, claims of irregular voting processes were shared by various opposition candidates; concerns included alleged corruption, delayed poll opening times, technical issues, misappropriation of electoral kits, and even, vote-rigging. The government’s refusal to allow a re-run of disputed elections and its banning of protests against perceived election mishandling have further exacerbated tensions.
The originally scheduled date of the DRC presidential election was December 20, though was extended due to technical and logistical challenges. Notable issues included difficulties with voter name finding, closed voting booths, and instances of violence that hindered the overall process. The antagonistic election campaign also witnessed a handful of violent episodes, including live firing incidents at a rally and the killing of two presidential candidates. Amidst escalating unrest, both Human Rights Watch and Reporters without Borders issued statements demanding investigations into electoral violence and calling for protection for journalists reportedly facing threats and attacks.
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