Congo’s electoral commission announced on Monday that it had registered approximately 43.9 million voters for general elections in December, an increase from the previous poll’s 40.4 million. However, some opposition members have claimed that there have been irregularities in the process.
Political tensions are rising as the Congo votes on December 20, with President Felix Tshisekedi widely expected to run for reelection.
Security forces used tear gas against anti-government protesters over the weekend, as participants echoed opposition candidates’ complaints about delays and alleged irregularities in the run-up to the election.
Over 95 million people participated in the protests, many of whom were upset about rising living costs and escalating violence in the east, where armed militia groups compete for control of land and mineral resources.
Some voter registration drives have been halted due to safety concerns. CENI has stated that it is investigating ways to enroll them.
Despite the fact that the commission appointed its own auditors to review the enrollment numbers over the course of five days, opposition leaders have expressed skepticism about the figure.
The International Organization of La Francophonie, which audited the previous registration process in 2018, has refused to work with the CENI this year due to the short time frame of five days.
According to a CENI employee who requested anonymity, the audit was thorough and meticulous.
