President Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has been sworn in for a second five-year term following the December elections, which were marred by controversy and opposition rejection of the results. The inauguration ceremony took place at Kinshasa’s Martyrs sports stadium, attended by invited heads of African states and traditional chiefs.
In his inauguration speech, President Tshisekedi emphasized the need for a more united, stronger, and prosperous Congo, acknowledging the challenges faced by the nation, including unemployment, youth issues, women’s rights, and national cohesion. Tensions simmered in the country’s eastern provinces, and the president, known as “Fatshi,” chose the 80,000-capacity Martyrs stadium for the ceremony.
President Tshisekedi first took office in January 2019, defeating Joseph Kabila in a controversial election. Despite promises to improve living conditions and bring an end to decades of bloodshed, Tshisekedi faced criticism for not fulfilling these commitments during his first term.
The recent elections, held in December, were highly contested, with opposition candidates, including businessman Moise Katumbi and Martin Fayulu, rejecting the results and calling on the population to mobilize. The electoral process faced logistical challenges, including delayed and non-opening polling stations, materials shortages, and issues with voter cards.
Opposition figures Katumbi and Fayulu called for the cancellation of the election results and urged their supporters to express their discontent. Reports of protests and unrest in Goma and Beni, particularly in the conflict-torn eastern provinces, raised concerns about potential violence.
The electoral commission, CENI, acknowledged cases of fraud, vandalism, and intimidation during the elections. The DRC has a history of disputed elections leading to violence, and the recent events have heightened tensions and eroded trust in the country’s institutions. The international community will closely watch developments in the DRC as President Tshisekedi begins his second term amidst political challenges and opposition discontent.
Credit: Aljazeera and other internet sources.
