21 Dec 2023 | 01:52 AM UTC
DRC: Political tensions to persist nationwide ahead of election results following general elections Dec. 20-21 /update 2
Political tensions likely elevated ahead of election results in DRC following nationwide general elections Dec. 20-21. Violence possible.
Political tensions will likely remain elevated nationwide through at least early January following the general elections Dec. 20-21. Preliminary reports indicate that the election process witnessed widespread logistical issues, faulty equipment, and conspiratorial allegations, with numerous polling stations that either could not open or had faced delayed opening or vandalism, among others. Consequently, officials announced the extension of voting into Dec. 21 for voting centers that could not accommodate the general public in the voting process the previous day. While election results are expected by Dec. 31, opposition activists have announced plans to contest the outcome due to several perceived challenges by the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI). They claim that any extension to the voting process may undermine the integrity of the elections.
Authorities had suspended domestic flights and closed the country's borders 00:01-23:59 Dec. 20; it is unclear if officials have extended the enhanced security measures into Dec. 21 due to the voting extension. International flights are unaffected.
The elections allowed voters to elect the country's president, national, provincial, and other local representatives. Political gatherings and related disruptions are increasingly likely as the announcement of the election results nears. Tensions are usually high during election periods, with an increased risk of political violence due to fierce competition to access elected positions at the national and local levels.
Increased security will likely persist in the coming days, notably in main urban centers, such as Goma, Kinshasa, and Lubumbashi, and along key thoroughfares and near government buildings. Localized transport and business disruptions are possible. Significant incidents of violence, clashes with security forces, opposing rival activists, and other forms of politically-related violence may occur in the aftermath of the election period. Officials may impose enhanced restrictive measures, such as temporary curfews, exit/entry restrictions, and internet/phone service shutdowns to prevent violence or in the event of significant unrest.
Remain apprised of the political situation and avoid discussing political topics in public. Allow extra time for travel post-election period. Monitor local media for details concerning political gatherings, as organizers may not announce plans in advance. Avoid any political gatherings due to possible clashes. If violence occurs nearby, immediately leave the area and seek shelter at a safe nongovernment building. Adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.
Political tensions are elevated due to concerns surrounding the proper organization of the election and the transparency of CENI. In addition, the precarious security situation (communal violence, rival militias, armed groups in the east) will likely prevent voting in parts of the country, raising a lack of legitimacy for the president-elect and threatening the country’s stability. Claims of fraud and the rejection of the results by losing candidates may also inflame tensions as witnessed after the 2018 elections.
