The Democratic Republic of Congo recently held crucial elections from December 20th to 26th, 2023, to elect a new president, national legislative representatives, provincial legislative officials, and municipal advisers. Despite, the ongoing armed conflict in the country has prevented 7 millions of  citizens from benefiting of their democratic right to vote.

In Nord-Kivu, Among those who were unable to participate in the elections are the displaced citizens of Nyiragongo, who have been forced to flee from the masisi and rutshuru territories due to the armed violence by armed groups such as M23 fighting the congolese army FARDC.

Despite their displacement condition, the most are struggling to vote their candidates, while others were unable to do , highlighting the challenges faced by those affected by conflict in the country.

The election results were announced by the Commission Electorale Nationale Independante (CENI) on December 31st, 2023, with the final confirmation coming from the constitutional court on January 9th, 2024.  Felix Tshisekedi Tshilombo emerged was declared as the presidential election’s winner  marking a significant moment in the country’s political landscape.

Sao far, on January 13th, the CENI also proclaimed the results of the National Legislative elections, indicating a significant step in Congolese democracy somehow is the challenge faced by the country with armed conflict for decades. The outcome of these elections is crucial for the future of the Democratic Republic of Congo and will have a significant impact on the political and social aspects of the country.

As the newly elected representatives take office, it is hoped that the Democratic Republic of Congo will experience a period of stability, progress, and prosperity. The participation of the displaced citizens especially located in Nyiragongo, despite their lives conditions as IDPs, proves an engagement and determination that Congolese people care about  country’s future.

Daniel Buuma