The United States and the European Union have demanded a comprehensive review of electoral process, probe, hold accountable those who attempted to undermine the will of the Congolese people.
In a separate statement on Thursday while congratulated Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo on his re-election to a second term as President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
Through the State Department Spokesman, Mathew Miller, the United States hailed the Congolese people for their commitment to making their voices heard throughout the electoral process.
Adding that, “Now the important task of building national cohesion calls for leadership, accountability, inclusivity at all levels.
“Regrettably, as noted by domestic and international observation missions, insecurity, logistical issues, and preparatory shortcomings created significant delays and barriers to voting on election day.
“For many, incidents of fraud and corruption raised doubts about the integrity of the results. We encourage the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) to ensure greater transparency regarding the tabulation of remaining results”.
US urged Congolese authorities to launch a comprehensive review of electoral process, investigate and hold accountable those who attempted to undermine the will of people, and, in consultation with stakeholders, act on recommendations to improve future elections.
“The United States looks forward to expanding its partnership with the DRC government and working with Congolese people across the nation to advance our mutual interests”, statement said.
Also, the European Union noted the announcement of the final results of the Presidential election by the Constitutional Court, which declares President Félix Tshisekedi the winner.
Saluted the enthusiasm and desire of Congolese citizens for making their voices heard, calmly despite logistical difficulties while wished the authorities and all citizens every success at the dawn of this second term.
“Several electoral observation missions have nevertheless documented numerous cases of irregularities and incidents which affected the entire electoral process.
EU encouraged the institutions in charge, in particular the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) and judicial authorities, to respond to these concerns and to pursue the next stages of the electoral process with the greatest transparency in full compliance with Congolese legislation. in force.
The EU welcomed the publication of results polling station by polling station by the CENI, but, at the same time, regrets its lack of the communication on key aspects of electoral process, which did not contribute to bringing the desirable clarity to the vote and compilation of results.
While called on the competent authorities to investigate in a fair and transparent manner concerns raised regarding non- compliance with electoral law procedures and allegations of fraud and violence.
In connection with the final reports of the various electoral observation missions, the EU offered practical recommendations through its electoral expert mission, in order to contribute to implementing the essential reforms to strengthen the confidence of all stakeholders in electoral institutions and procedures.
The European Union Commission wished to remain engaged alongside the Democratic Republic of Congo and strengthen ties between its populations.
“The active participation of all political, economic and social actors in the DRC in the development and pacification of the country is essential and must be done with respect for fundamental rights and freedoms, and while avoiding all polarization and violence.
It was reported that President Felix Tshisekedi won a second term in office with a landslide victory, according to provisional results announced by electoral commission, in a poll that the opposition leaders have dismissed as a “sham”.