DRC Security Alert: Political Assassination in DRC Raises Concerns for December Elections

DRC Security Alert: Political Assassination in DRC Raises Concerns for December Elections

Provinces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. (2023, July 2). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Provinces_of_the_Democratic_Republic_of_the_Congo

Event Description:

In a grim event casting doubt on the prospect of fair and democratic elections in December in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), former minister and opposition Member of Parliament Chérubin Okende was found slain in his car in Kinshasa. Okende, a notable member of Moise Katumbi's opposition party and a candidate for the upcoming presidential election, was discovered shot multiple times, a chilling incident that raises concerns about the political climate in the DRC.

The murder occurred amidst a crucial phase in the DRC's electoral progression, with candidate registration for parliamentary elections concluding on July 15th. The country is set to have its general elections on December 20th. However, escalating political tensions and serious security issues, particularly in the eastern regions, are already threatening the electoral process.

Opposition leader Martin Fayulu, who was a presidential candidate in the last election and maintains that he won the poll, expressed his doubts regarding the integrity of the electoral process in the absence of an audited electoral file by a reputable independent body. In addition, concerns have been raised about the speed and breadth of the voter registration process which occurred over three months across a population of around 44 million electors in a country as vast as western Europe.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI), tasked with organizing the vote, has so far managed to adhere to its strict deadlines. However, it faces criticism over the speed of the external audit of the electoral roll, the swiftness of the voter registration process, and its inability to carry out registration in parts of the east due to insecurity from armed groups such as the M23 and the FDLR. 

[source: RFI]

Risk Assessment (4/5):

The reported incident presents a high risk (4/5). It significantly escalates the already present political tension in the DRC. The killing of a prominent opposition leader raises serious concerns about political violence and repression, which can lead to further escalations, including more violence, protests, and instability. This is particularly concerning given the upcoming elections, which should be a democratic process free from intimidation and violence.

Mitigation Measures:

Organizations and individuals present in DRC should consider the following mitigation measures:

• Enhanced Security Measures: Increased security measures should be implemented for key personnel, especially those involved in politically sensitive activities or known to have political affiliations.
  
• Continuous Monitoring: Regularly monitor local media and advisories from local government or international entities for updates on the political situation and any potential escalation of tensions or violence.
  
• Safe Zones Identification: Identify safe zones or areas with reduced risk where activities can continue with minimum disruption and personnel can retreat to in the event of sudden unrest.
  
• Emergency Plan: Develop an emergency response plan that includes communication protocols, evacuation routes, and procedures to be followed in the event of violence or unrest.
  
• Travel Advisory: Limit non-essential travel, especially in areas known for political rallies or where the security situation is tense.
  
• Engage Local Expertise: Engage with local communities and organizations for updated information and guidance on navigating the current political climate.
  
• Political Neutrality: Maintain political neutrality and refrain from public statements or actions that may be perceived as taking a side in the current political climate.