By Rédaction Africa Links 24 with RFI
Published on 2024-01-20 16:57:27
The Democratic Republic of Congo’s President, Felix Tshisekedi, has been inaugurated for a second term in office after a disputed election. Despite widespread irregularities, Tshisekedi took the oath of office at Kinshasa’s Martyrs sports stadium, with the presence of supporters, government officials, African heads of state and foreign envoys, including those from the United States, China, and France. The deployment of armed military police in the capital indicated that opposition supporters were not heeding the call to protest against Tshisekedi’s re-election from his main opponents.
While the election authorities acknowledged issues, they dismissed allegations of voter fraud. The tension and opposition to the election results echo previous electoral disputes that have led to unrest in Congo. Tensions have also been escalating in the country’s eastern provinces. Tshisekedi, also known as “Fatshi,” deliberately chose Martyrs Stadium for his inauguration, highlighting the contrast with his first inauguration in 2019.
Son of the late opposition figure Etienne Tshisekedi, Felix Tshisekedi came to power on a platform that promised to improve living conditions and put an end to bloodshed in the country. Although he has not fulfilled these promises, he campaigned on his first-term achievements and asked for another mandate to consolidate progress.
The election faced multiple logistical issues, but Tshisekedi officially secured over 73 percent of the vote. However, opposition candidates called for the election results to be canceled, and there were allegations of fraud and electoral malpractice.
Tensions have escalated, with reports of protests and violence in various parts of the country. The electoral commission acknowledged cases of fraud, vandalism, and intimidation during the elections.
Security remains a significant challenge for Tshisekedi, as violence has resumed in the eastern part of the country. The presence of a peacekeeping force and the involvement of neighboring countries have further complicated the security situation. Despite his re-election, Tshisekedi faces ongoing opposition and security challenges, highlighting the deep political and social divisions in the country.
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