Ringing In a New Era
Democratic Elections in the DRC
by Paul Trustfull

There is much to be excited about in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), as 32 million voters—a national record—prepare to participate in national and local elections.

Pastor Daniel Ngoy Mulunda, a veteran of African political cycles and chair of the Independent National Electoral Commission, excitedly awaits the countrywide elections that will take place in the DRC later this year.

The upcoming elections—which in the past have been contentious and drawn-out—will essentially determine the future of the Congolese people in the coming years, as they will introduce a new president, members of parliament and provincial leaders.

"We need to change our future through the polls," states Mulunda. "This power to select our destiny should be in our mind and in our subconscious at all times."

Mulunda emphasizes that infrastructure will be the main platform for the elections. "Reconstruction will be the talk of this election, and the political parties will each show that they are rebuilding the nation, some more so than others."

The international community will play a large supporting role in the upcoming elections by providing aid for security and police, as well as the training of voting staff. The United Nations will also help with some of the logistical provisions of polling stations throughout the country. To ensure fairness in the balloting process, biometric technology, used to identify individuals, will be employed to prevent fraud.

“We need to change our future through the polls. This power to select our destiny
should be in our mind and in our subconscious at all times.”

Pastor Daniel Ngoy Mulunda, Independent National Electoral Commission Chair

Mulunda explains that once the process begins, the elections will move quickly. Starting in early August, candidates were officially introduced, and by the end of September, the ballots will be printed. Following the elections on November 28, the newly elected leaders will be announced on December 6.

Mulunda, who left the DRC in 1988 to work for the All Africa Conference of Churches in Nairobi, Kenya, is no stranger to the workings of a democracy. In 1994, he traveled to the United States to study under Bishop Desmond Tutu. Upon his return, he continued where he left off in his efforts to bring peace to Africa.

As the world watches the DRC prepare for November 28, experienced individuals like Daniel Mulunda are working tirelessly to ensure that the elections take place smoothly, efficiently and peacefully.