The United States Embassy in Kinshasa has urged Congo’s Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) to publish the electoral lists ahead of the December 20 presidential elections.
The publication of the voter’s roll is a contentious issue which the opposition say will enhance transparency in the conduct of a free and fair election.
In a statement, the envoys assert that the lists, the budget-related information and electoral mapping must be published as soon as possible to demonstrate CENI’S commitment to transparency and accountability.
“The protection of fundamental human rights such as freedom of expression, freedom of assembly and the right of movement is a distinctive feature of democracies.
“We note with concern the reports of physical attacks on political figures, harassment of supporters, politicized judicial procedures, and arbitrary detentions that could reduce opportunities for candidates during the electoral process and undermine public confidence in the government’s ability to guarantee free, fair, and peaceful elections.
“We urge the government to use all necessary means to ensure fair conditions for all candidates and to fully respect legal procedures and the right to a fair trial for persons in detention,” the Embassy states.
The Embassy has noted efforts of the Independent National Electoral Commission to respect its electoral calendar and note the overall successful completion of the registration of candidates in legislative and local elections, as well as the challenges that remain in some territories.
“The United States of America takes note of the ongoing efforts of stakeholders in the elections in the Democratic Republic of the Congo to ensure the inclusiveness, transparency, and tranquility of the current electoral cycle.
“We note that democracies require the participation of their citizens in the electoral processes and urge all stakeholders in the electoral process — including state authorities, institutions of the republic, civil society organizations, and political parties to redouble their efforts to strengthen confidence in the electoral process among Congolese citizens and encourage voter participation in the elections to be held in December,” the envoys state.
The Americans have condemned the harassment and marginalization of women candidates and reiterate that all stakeholders in the electoral process, whether in opposition or aligned with the ruling majority or civil society, have a shared responsibility to prevent and denounce violence and aggression against women candidates, as well as to reject incitement to violence and condemn the use of hate speech that sow discord during this election period.
“As a partner, we reiterate our support for the Democratic Republic of the Congo in the last months of this electoral cycle and note that the December elections are a crucial opportunity for the Democratic Republic of the Congo to consolidate its important democratic achievements and build a more prosperous future for its people,” the Embassy states.
