DR Congo: Electoral democracy in the balance

For approximately a decade, the DR Congo has been an electoral democracy. Elections were held in 2006 and 2011, and though marred by irregularities, they allowed democracy to survive and function: no small feat in a country that had come out of 32 years of dictatorship followed by two devastating wars. As new elections are supposed to take place before the end of this year however, there are concerns that the country’s president, Joseph Kabila, will manipulate the system so as to stay in power for longer than his constitutionally allowed two terms, which are soon completed. Trust between opposition and the ruling government is wearing thin, and while civil liberties and political freedoms are reportedly being restricted many Congolese have still continued to voice their discontent, in the media and on the streets.

What are the likely scenarios for Congo’s democracy? Who are the alternative candidates vying for influence, and what are their agendas? If the constitution is violated, what will be the consequences? At this meeting, the political conundrums facing one of Africa’s largest countries will be introduced against the background of its political system, key events of its recent post-war history as well as current fault lines and sources of tension.

Preliminary programme:

15:15 Opening by professor Mirjam de Bruijn (ASCL & Humanities)
15:20 Information on the ASCL Library by Edith de Roos (ASCL)
15:35 Lecture by Ingrid Samset (LUC/FGGA)
16:00 Coffee/tea break
16:15 Panel discussion, led by Mirjam de Bruijn
Panel members: Ingrid Samset, Carolien Jacobs, Catherina Wilson, Sapin Makengele
17:00 Drinks and informal meeting

You need to register for this meeting: asccommunity@ascleiden.nl