As 44 million people in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) prepare to choose their next president from a pool of 19 candidates, underlying challenges cast shadows on the apparent democratic process. While the sheer number of candidates might suggest a vibrant democracy, the reality tells a different story. Insecurity, particularly in certain regions of the country, coupled with logistical hurdles, poses significant obstacles for the DR Congo elections.
DR Congo, rich in cobalt, a crucial component of lithium batteries integral to a fossil fuel-free future, sees the success of this election as pivotal for national stability and responsible resource extraction.
President Félix Tshisekedi seeks re-election, facing contenders like wealthy mining magnate Moïse Katumbi and former oil executive Martin Fayulu, who claimed victory in the 2018 election, a result contested by international observers.
Despite the historic peaceful transfer of power after the last DR Congo elections, optimism marred by ongoing challenges looms over this electoral process. A single round of voting determines the winner, and the multitude of challengers could potentially divide opposition support, working to Tshisekedi’s advantage.
The elections extend beyond the presidential race, with voters selecting parliamentary, provincial, and municipal representatives from a pool of around 100,000 candidates in this vast country spanning 2,000km (1,400 miles) west to east.
Logistical hurdles have prompted the electoral commission to enlist UN peacekeepers to aid in transporting voting materials to over 175,000 polling booths. In the East, insecurity remains a focal point, with armed groups vying for control and displacing millions.
The UN peacekeeping force, regional forces, and Congolese soldiers have not quelled the violence, leading to concerns about displaced individuals unable to register to vote. Some regions face the complete suspension of voting due to rebel activity.
Insecurity, particularly in the eastern provinces of Ituri, Nord Kivu, and Sud Kivu, has been a central campaign issue, with promises from presidential candidates to address the longstanding problem. Political violence in the lead-up to the DR Congo elections has also raised concerns.
On the eve of the vote, the European Union expressed worry about hate speech, violence, and incidents in recent days. Deadly incidents prompted a temporary suspension of Moïse Katumbi’s campaign.
Polls opened at 06:00 local time, with voting expected to last 11 hours. Provisional results are anticipated to be announced by the electoral commission on December 31.