Ahead of crucial elections Wednesday, the European Union issued a strong warning against hate speech and violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The statement highlights concerns about rising tensions amidst a complex political landscape.
Forty-four million Congolese citizens are registered to vote on Wednesday in a pivotal election encompassing the presidency, parliament, provinces, and municipalities. This comes against the backdrop of ongoing conflict in eastern DRC.
“The EU expresses deep concern about the hate speech, violence, and incidents that have marred the final days of the campaign,” the statement reads. It urges authorities to investigate human rights violations documented by the United Nations and hold perpetrators accountable.
President Felix Tshisekedi (60) faces a divided opposition in this election, considered a close race despite his perceived advantage. While the campaign has been relatively calm compared to past elections (DRC only witnessed its first peaceful power transition in 2018), recent weeks have seen a worrying escalation.
Bintou Keita, head of the UN peacekeeping mission in DRC, reported increasing violence, vandalism, and hate speech targeting campaign materials. Human Rights Watch also issued a warning on Saturday, highlighting documented clashes between rival party supporters, including assaults, sexual violence, and a reported fatality.
The EU stressed that “efforts to divide the population along ethnic or origin lines, and any comments inciting violence, are unacceptable.” They emphasized the responsibility of authorities to ensure an inclusive, free, transparent, and peaceful electoral process.
Notably, the EU cancelled its planned deployment of election observers last month, citing “technical reasons.” Sources speculate that refusal to grant observers access to satellite equipment, potentially fearing its use to manipulate the poll, may have been the underlying factor.
With tensions running high and concerns about irregularities, tomorrow’s elections in the DRC remain fraught with uncertainty. The international community, including the EU, will be closely watching for signs of violence and any attempts to undermine the democratic process.
