Polls open in highly-anticipated DR Congo election

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Polls open in highly-anticipated DR Congo election

9:33 CAT | 20 Dec 2023

There are long queues in different polling stations as voters wait to cast their ballots [Image: BBC]

Polls have opened in the highly-anticipated Democratic Republic of Congo’s general elections.

Dozens of enthusiastic voters lined up at polling stations long before voting was opened.

Voting started at 06:00 local time (04:00 GMT) in the eastern part of the country and at 05:00 GMT in western region, which is one hour behind.

The start of voting has, however, experienced delays in some polling stations amid challenges setting up voting machines.

The electoral body CENI had earlier assured the public that all registered voters will have a chance to vote, but concerns linger as insecurity and logistical challenges have frustrated the delivery of election kits to parts of the country.

The 44 million registered voters have until 17:00 local time to cast their votes.

More than 13,000 Congolese nationals in South Africa, France, United States, Canada and Belgium, DR Congo’s former colonial power, are also expected to vote, in a first for the country.

Source: BBC