The Commission électorale nationale indépendante (CENI) of the Democratic Republic of the Congo has announced sanctions against agents involved in selling duplicates of voter identification cards in Kinshasa. According to a communiqué released on October 9, 2026, the CENI identified the agents, including logisticians and informaticians, through internal investigations following complaints from citizens. The institution emphasized that the issuance of these documents is free of charge.
The CENI's communiqué specified that certain agents were found to be involved in the sale of duplicates, and they have faced disciplinary action. The electoral body warned that any other personnel member found guilty of such acts will face measures provided by legal and regulatory texts. The CENI also announced the opening of a specific desk at the Secrétariat exécutif provincial (SEP) of Kinshasa to assist voters who are currently in Kinshasa but were registered in other provinces.
The CENI clarified that the delivery of duplicate voter ID cards is entirely free. It distinguished between the free issuance of duplicates by its services and potential fees requested by an officier de police judiciaire (OPJ) for establishing a procès-verbal or an attestation of loss of pieces. The institution urged citizens to report any demand for money to obtain the document, providing evidence, to its branches or by calling the toll-free number 0815163807.
The move aims to address concerns over the sale of voter ID duplicates, which may compromise the integrity of the electoral process. By setting up a special desk, the CENI seeks to provide relief to voters who face difficulties in obtaining duplicates due to their location. The institution's efforts to ensure the free issuance of voter IDs are part of its broader mandate to guarantee the transparency and fairness of elections.
The CENI's action follows reports of citizens being asked to pay for duplicates, which is against the regulations. The institution's decision to take disciplinary action against the implicated agents demonstrates its commitment to upholding the law and protecting the rights of voters. The CENI's warning to other personnel members involved in such practices underscores its determination to prevent future occurrences.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo has been working to strengthen its electoral processes and ensure the credibility of its elections. The CENI's efforts to address the issue of voter ID duplicates are crucial in this regard. By providing a free and accessible service for obtaining duplicates, the institution aims to promote voter participation and trust in the electoral process.
The CENI's initiative has been publicized through various channels, including its website and social media platforms. Citizens are encouraged to report any irregularities or demands for money to obtain voter ID duplicates. The institution's commitment to transparency and accountability is reflected in its decision to establish a specific desk to handle the issuance of duplicates and to provide a toll-free number for reporting concerns.
Key points
- The CENI has sanctioned agents involved in selling voter ID duplicates in Kinshasa and warned of further action against those involved.
- The institution has established a special desk to assist voters who need duplicates but are currently in Kinshasa.
- The CENI emphasized that the issuance of voter ID duplicates is free of charge and urged citizens to report any demands for money.
