Judicial Confirmation of President Tshisekedi's Re-Election in DR Congo

The Democratic Republic of Congo's (DRC) Constitutional Court has officially confirmed the re-election of President Felix Tshisekedi, following the December 20th polls. President Tshisekedi achieved a dominant victory, securing 73.47 percent of the vote, while his main opposition, Moise Katumbi, garnered 18.08 percent. This victory sets the stage for President Tshisekedi's second term in office, with his inauguration scheduled for January 20.

The election, however, has been mired in controversy. The opposition and some civil society groups have raised concerns about the election's legitimacy, labeling it a "sham." Issues cited include massive logistical problems, with numerous polling stations opening late or not at all, and voter cards becoming illegible due to smudged ink. These challenges led to the extension of voting into a second day, a move deemed illegal by local observers and civil society organizations. Martin Fayulu, another opposition candidate, described the election as a farce and urged the public not to accept the results.

Despite the 18 million people who cast their votes out of 44 million registered voters, representing a 43 percent turnout, the election's chaotic nature, marked by delays, logistical problems, and allegations of irregularities, has cast a shadow over its outcome. The National Episcopal Conference, deploying nearly 24,000 election observers, reported various abuses, including vote buying and voter intimidation, which they believe could have influenced the results in certain areas.

This election is significant as it represents only the second peaceful transfer of power in the DRC's history since its independence in 1960. President Tshisekedi first came to power in 2018, in an election also criticized by the opposition and the international community, where many considered Martin Fayulu the legitimate winner​