Mmegi

Crisis of legitimacy in DRC elections

The Democratic Republic of the Congo’s (DRC) chaotic elections failed to break the country’s long legacy of fraudulent polls and plunged the government into a fresh crisis of legitimacy.

The DRC’s Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) has declared incumbent President Félix Tshisekedi the winner of the country’s presidential election with 72% of the vote. The resounding figure would seem implausible given the strong following of leading opposition candidates and pre-election polling showing no candidate gaining a majority.

Moreover, no previous incumbent in the DRC has ever secured more than 48% of the vote, even with allegations of widespread fraud.

Editor's Comment
Diplomatic relations must be on equal footing

“Let us never negotiate out of fear.But let us never fear to negotiate”– John F. KennedySupport for healthcare, education, skills and infrastructure can improve lives. The reaffirmed commitment to the Mmopane–Block 8 road is welcome for the prospect of better transport links for surrounding communities.China has shown willingness to assist Botswana, and government deserves credit for securing these commitments. However, the success of our...

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