Protesters in Goma took to the streets on Sunday, responding to the opposition’s call for mobilization against the results of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s presidential election, which saw President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo re-elected with over 70% of the vote, according to the country’s election commission.
The preliminary results, announced in Kinshasa, faced opposition demands and civil society calls for a rerun due to significant logistical issues casting doubt on the validity of the outcome.
Tshisekedi’s victory was followed by businessman Moise Katumbi with 18% and Martin Fayulu with 5%. Nobel Peace Prize winner Denis Mukwege, known for treating victims of sexual violence, received less than 1%.
Tshisekedi supporters celebrate his re-election
A wave of jubilation swept through the ranks of Félix Tshisekedi’s supporters on Sunday, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, creating an atmosphere of sheer joy and excitement.
The exuberance was triggered by the announcement from the country’s election commission, officially declaring Tshisekedi’s resounding re-election with an impressive majority, securing over 70% of the total votes cast.
The enthusiastic celebration among his followers reflected a deep sense of satisfaction and confidence in the leadership of their chosen candidate, as they eagerly anticipated the continuation of Tshisekedi’s tenure.
Prince Mukinayi, a member of Tshisekedi’s UDPS party, expressed joy, stating, “I’m delighted that our president has been re-elected. All Congolese, everywhere, we are happy, and we will give him the chance for our country to be developed.”
Addressing his supporters at headquarters, Tshisekedi expressed gratitude for another five-year term. With 18 million voters and a 40% turnout, the results are now headed to the constitutional court for confirmation, as indicated by election chief Denis Kadima.
Despite the enthusiasm, opposition candidates and civil society groups demanded a vote rerun, citing massive logistical issues that allegedly undermined the balloting. Tshisekedi’s resounding victory intensified concerns.
Opposition candidates, including Katumbi, rejected the results before Sunday’s announcement, calling on the population to mobilize. As Congo’s history of disputed elections looms, the final outcome, scheduled for January 10, remains uncertain, with potential challenges casting a shadow over the electoral process.
