The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is holding its second day of voting on Thursday, after a chaotic start to the presidential and parliamentary elections on Wednesday. The vote was marred by massive delays, technical glitches, and violence, as millions of Congolese went to the polls to choose their next leader from a crowded field of 25 candidates.
According to the National Independent Electoral Commission (CENI), election preparations were advancing well, with the UN peacekeeping mission in the country (MONUSCO) providing logistical support. However, many polling stations never opened or opened late, due to the lack of ballot papers, voting machines, or electricity. Some voters also complained that their names were missing from the voters’ roll, or that they were unable to vote due to insecurity.
The head of CENI, Corneille Nangaa, said that despite the challenges, at least 70% of voters had the chance to cast their ballots on Wednesday, and that the remaining 30% would be able to do so on Thursday. He also urged the candidates and their supporters to respect the electoral process and refrain from any violence or provocation.
The incumbent President, Felix Tshisekedi, is seeking a second and final five-year term in office, facing a divided opposition that includes former oil executive Martin Fayulu, wealthy businessman Moise Katumbi, and Nobel Peace Prize winner Denis Mukwege. The results are expected to be announced on December 27, but some observers fear that disputes and allegations of fraud could trigger a post-election crisis.
