The 2011 DRC election polls and beyond

This situation report seeks to provide an analysis of the 2011 elections with the aim of providing context for key internal and external stakeholders.

In November 2011 the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) held its second post-war presidential and National Assembly elections. These elections, which took place in a context of significant challenges, were marred by allegations of electoral fraud and mismanagement. The pre-electoral climate was characterised by persistent insecurity in parts of the country, pervasive socioeconomic adversity and electoral dynamics of radicalisation. These dynamics elicited calls from internal and external stakeholders for political tolerance, adherence to the electoral code of conduct and abstention from violence.  

Author: Nyambura Githaiga