Four days before the end of the electoral campaign for the December 2023 elections, different candidates are throwing themselves into the electoral battle. They are intensifying their campaign strategies, despite the lack of financial support that many of them complain about from their parties and political groups.
Decisive week in Goma
In these last decisive days of the electoral campaign in Goma, in the North Kivu province, candidates are looking to persuade potential voters.
In addition to motorized caravans with sound systems and megaphones, several other candidates are stepping up their poster and photo displays on the main streets of the city. Others are increasing their appearances in the media and in public.
Due to a lack of substantial resources, some candidates are content with just a few printed photos and T-shirts and limit themselves to that. They say they rely on the trust of their voters.
Gifts offered in Matadi
In the city of Matadi, in Kongo-Central, candidates are employing various actions to attract the sympathy of voters, including the distribution of fabric wraps and money. The aim is to charm the voters, many of whom claim to find their interests served in this stage of the electoral process.
Brass bands remain one of the most sought-after musical instruments during this campaign season. Almost everywhere, their sound can be heard. Some candidates even use semi-trailer trucks that carry musicians and other performers who are paid to campaign on their behalf.
The population says it appreciates this campaign period because they benefit from several donations.
For Jules Benga, president of the Civil Society Consultation Framework of Kongo-Central, the charitable actions carried out by the candidates should in no way be a reason to grant them votes.
Several people who have benefited from the donations of different candidates state that they have still not recovered the duplicates of their voter cards from the CENI because their cards have become illegible.
MMC / RO