November 2011 Elections in DRC

Elections are over but the process is not. We wait with palpable anticipation for the announcement of results expected to come on December 6th. As with everything about this place reports on the integrity of the process on election day are variable and inconsistent. In some places complete order and in others complete chaos and worse.

In total contrast to the chaos, my two days spent at home were so peaceful that it felt like the aftermath of a nuclear holocaust. In our neighborhood of mostly expats, you could hear a pin drop. Between the expats that had fled the country to escape the elections and those that refused to leave their homes, the result was one of the eeriest calms I've ever experienced. The old 1960's television series "Outer Limits" came to mind.

Our morning walk along the Congo River was surreal. The only hint of an election taking place for us in our neighborhood was the odd returning security guard who had been relieved long enough to be permitted to go and vote. We eagerly asked how the process went. With a broad, proud smile, the answer was "Bon!" In some cases, the smiling guards admitted to a bit of disorder. Their descriptions were in line with those coming from other parts of the country where the problems mostly stemmed from voter anger from names not appearing on lists. But then again, I even witnessed that in Florida in 2008.

What I did not witness at that time however was whole polling stations being burnt to the ground as we have heard tell of in some parts of the country.

But the best stories I've heard are of the dedicated poll watchers, especially as to the predominance of youth among them. That is so heartening and bodes well for the future. Poll workers who managed to maintain order at their stations and guide voters successfully and politely through the process also deserve enormous praise for their grace under pressure.

There is hope at last for the Congo. THERE HAS TO BE!!!