Kinshasa, DR Congo Long lines and late ballot deliveries greeted the start of the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s (DRC) high-stakes presidential election, casting doubt on the fairness and efficiency of the process.

Voters in Kinshasa and other major cities faced up to two-hour delays as polling stations opened late due to a last-minute scramble to deliver voting materials.

President Félix Tshisekedi is up against 18 other candidates, including wealthy mining magnate Mose Katumbi and former oil executive Martin Fayulu. The election, the country’s fourth democratic transfer of power, is seen as a litmus test for a country rich in resources but plagued by insecurity and violence.

Logistical nightmares are a common theme in Congolese elections. The vast, insufficiently developed country presents enormous challenges, with some polling stations in remote areas simply inaccessible. The United Nations, neighboring countries, and even Congolese in exile are assisting with the complex operation, adding another layer of complication.

The stakes of this election cannot be overstated. The mineral-rich east, home to coveted cobalt reserves, has been ravaged by armed groups, displacing millions and disrupting voting registration. Insecurity concerns forced the cancellation of voting in some areas, disenfranchising citizens already bearing the brunt of conflict.

Hate speech and political violence further marred the campaign, raising concerns about voter intimidation and fairness. The European Union expressed apprehension about “the hate speech, violence and incidents that have marked the last few days.”

Despite the challenges, hope remains. The peaceful transfer of power in 2018, though contested, marked a significant step forward for Congolese democracy. Citizens yearn for stability and prosperity, and a credible election is seen as a critical step towards achieving those goals.

With provisional results expected on December 31st, the coming days will be tense. The large number of candidates could benefit Tshisekedi by splitting the opposition vote, but concerns about fairness and transparency linger. Whether the DRC can navigate these challenges and deliver a peaceful, credible election will have a profound impact on the country’s future.