As elections approach in the Democratic Republic of Congo-DRC, the regime in power has raised cost for anyone intending to challenge sitting ruler Felix Tshisekedi whom is regarded by many as a failure owing to the endemic crisis in the country.
Not so long ago, the world woke up to yet another horrific incident in which renowned opposition politician who served as former Transport Minister who was also a Member of Parliament was shot dead inside his vehicle after hours of disappearance. Okende was a fierce critic of the regime and the Spokesperson of Katanga-based political kingpin Moise Katumbi’s political party- Ensemble pour la Republique. It’s obvious that Tshisekedi is afraid of Katumbi because of his huge followership not only in his stronghold but also in the entire country.
Okende is just a tip of the iceberg, numerous political activists and opposition aspirants, journalists included have been illegally jailed on trumped-up charges in a clear move to muzzle dissenting voices in the country.
“Tell our version of the story or face the consequences”, this has been Tshisekedi and his cronies’ intimidating directives to journalists who braved enough to report about unfulfilled campaign pledges including security, economic growth, financial inclusion, infrastructure, education, healthcare among others.
Although, the covert operation to eliminate opposition figures is orchestrated in an opaque manner, some elements in the corridors of power, divulged a few details about the scheme and how it intends to ensure the Congolese failed ruler sweeps all votes to cling to power at least for another five years.
All presidential candidates- Martin Fayulu, Moise Katumbi, Denis Mukwege, Théodore Ngoy, Aggrey Ngalasi, Marie-José Ifoku, and Constant Mutamba have been placed on a 24/7 physical surveillance and mobile phones are being tapped to control their movements and strategy meetings.
Tshisekedi has scored below the minimum average with a run-of-the-mill performance, that’s on record. If Tshilombo is to be rated today in accordance with his manifesto, he knows he can’t face the electorate with anything substantial to back his campaign. The only way is to eliminate his political opponents, manipulate the electoral process and declare himself winner of the polls