President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has been re-elected, securing over 70% of the vote, as officially announced by the nation’s electoral commission. This significant victory demonstrates the strong support Tshisekedi enjoys among the Congolese electorate.
In a gesture of regional solidarity, President Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe congratulated President Tshisekedi, praising the trust and confidence the Congolese people have in his leadership. Mnangagwa also expressed a keen interest in continuing the bilateral cooperation between Zimbabwe and the DRC.
The election saw President Tshisekedi face several contenders, including businessman Moise Katumbi, who garnered 18% of the vote, former oil executive Martin Fayulu with 5%, and Nobel laureate Dr. Denis Mukwege. The election, which took place on December 20, witnessed a 40% voter turnout with over 18 million Congolese participating.
Denis Kadima, the DRC election chief, mentioned that the results are subject to review by the constitutional court, with final outcomes expected by January 10. If the results stand unchallenged, the inauguration of President Tshisekedi is scheduled for the end of January.
Opposition parties in the DRC, similar to those in Zimbabwe, have dismissed the election results, citing unfair practices but without substantial proof. Recent confrontations between supporters of Mr. Fayulu and police in Kinshasa escalated tensions, with police resorting to tear gas in response to stone-throwing protesters.
