Independent National Electoral Commission (Democratic Republic of the Congo)
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), in French, Commission Électorale Nationale Indépendante (CENI), is the organization responsible for managing and overseeing the electoral process in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Its mandate includes voter registration, the organization and conduct of elections (presidential, legislative, provincial, and local), the publication of election results, and voter education.
The CENI has been subject to significant scrutiny and controversy due to allegations of irregularities, fraud, and lack of transparency in past elections. Its composition and independence from political influence have also been frequently debated. The effectiveness of the CENI is crucial for ensuring the legitimacy and stability of the DRC's democratic institutions. Efforts to reform and strengthen the CENI have been ongoing, often involving international observers and technical assistance. The commission's actions and decisions are often closely monitored by both domestic and international stakeholders.