DRC – The Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) in the Democratic Republic of Congo has emphasized that candidates must remove their campaign posters 24 hours before the upcoming polls.
The electoral campaign, which commenced on November 19 for presidential, national, and provincial legislative elections, as well as municipal elections starting on December 4, will conclude at midnight on December 18.
In a press release on December 16, CENI urged all candidates to act responsibly, particularly concerning the impact of their propaganda.
Patricia Nseya Mulela, in a statement, outlined the post-campaign obligations, stating that candidates must take down all posters within a 100-meter radius of the Voting Center and refrain from distributing manifestos, circulars, or propaganda documents on election day.
While acknowledging the generally positive conduct of political parties, groups, and independent candidates during the campaign, CENI stressed the importance of maintaining responsible behavior throughout the entire electoral process.
The commission called upon political entities and their supporters to exercise restraint during voting, after the results are published, and beyond.
Despite commendable conduct, the electoral campaign, concluding on Monday, has witnessed unfortunate incidents, including violence resulting in casualties.
Notable events include the shooting death during Moïse Katumbi’s descent in Kindu, altercations in Muanda, stampedes during Félix Tshisekedi’s meeting in Mbanza Ngungu causing six deaths and numerous injuries, and the shooting death of a national deputy candidate in Béni.
In Kinshasa, recent incidents involve the Vice-governor of the city province Gecoco Mulumba facing legal action, an attack against Martin Fayulu’s supporters in Ngaliema, and tensions between Franck Diongo and young members of a political party identified as UDPS in the same municipality.
