Former Prime Minister Augustin Matata Ponyo has become the first Congolese to file his candidature for president ahead of elections on December 20, 2023.
Despite attempts to throw Ponyo in prison on a charge he was already acquitted, the official managed to pull a huge presence of supporters in Kinshasa to present his credentials.
Ponyo filed his candidature on the LGD ticket and draws his strength from the east parts of the DRC.
He served as Prime Minister under Joseph Kabila.
Presidential candidates must pay about $65,000 among other requirements to run for top office.
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