By Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Africanews
Published on 2024-01-18 18:47:21
Three opposition leaders in the Democratic Republic of Congo have come together to announce a nationwide protest scheduled for Saturday, which will coincide with President Félix Tshisekedi’s second-term inauguration. The electoral commission declared Tshisekedi’s victory in last month’s election with 73% of the vote. However, this result was met with criticism from several opposition candidates, including Moïse Katumbi, who officially secured second place with 18%, Martin Fayulu in third with 5%, and Anzuluni Bembe with 1%.
The opposition leaders have raised allegations of fraud and ballot stuffing, leading to their decision to call for a demonstration on the day of the inauguration. Despite these claims, the leading opposition candidates chose not to pursue a legal challenge, and the Constitutional Court has validated Tshisekedi’s victory.
The election outcome has been labeled as a “sham” by the opposition candidates, and their decision to protest on the day of Tshisekedi’s inauguration reflects their dissatisfaction with the results. The protest is planned to be a nationwide event, signaling widespread discontent among the opposition and their supporters.
The inauguration day protest is a show of defiance against Tshisekedi’s victory and a demand for transparency and accountability in the electoral process. It is also a reflection of the deep divisions and political tensions within the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The opposition leaders’ joint declaration of the protest demonstrates their unity and determination to challenge Tshisekedi’s presidency. Despite not pursuing a legal challenge, their decision to take to the streets and voice their grievances highlights the ongoing political turmoil in the country.
Overall, the planned nationwide protest on the day of Tshisekedi’s inauguration reflects the continued unrest and tensions surrounding the recent election and the legitimacy of his victory.
