Municipal authorities in Alindao, Basse-Kotto, were installed on Tuesday, September 15, despite a crowd denouncing the legitimacy of the new mayor and his council. A significant part of the population demonstrated anger during the installation proceedings, asserting that the new administration lacked proper electoral backing. Law enforcement dispersed the protesters who had gathered to contest the installation, leading to a tense atmosphere. The new mayor and his council proceeded with their swearing-in, completing the process amidst the unrest and public contention. This installation occurred despite the widespread contestation from segments of the population regarding the electoral outcome and the process.
Protesters Denounce Legitimacy
A segment of the population expressed anger during the installation proceedings in Alindao, vocally challenging the legitimacy of the newly appointed officials. Several protesters simultaneously boycotted the installation ceremony, choosing to demonstrate outside rather than participate in what they viewed as an illegitimate event. Defense and security forces responded to the demonstration by using intimidation shots in an attempt to control the crowd and disperse the protesters. Despite these actions, protesters managed to invade the sector where the ceremony was being held, forcing officials to retreat into a secure room for their safety. Earlier, last Tuesday, a collective of living forces in Alindao had organized a peaceful march to protest a statement issued by the National Electoral Authority (ANE), indicating a history of opposition to the electoral process.
Authorities Cite Judicial Decision
One of the disgruntled candidates, Emmanuel Zoungbada, claimed the mayor was imposed and not elected, asserting this action was contrary to the law and democratic principles. Mr. Zoungbada's accusations highlight the deep divisions and disagreements surrounding the electoral results in the commune. Despite these objections, administrative authorities maintained their stance, stating they were executing a judicial decision. Georges Gilbert Gbangoudou, the sub-prefect of Alindao, affirmed that the authorities had respected the established calendar for the installation. He further clarified that the mayor was invested based on a judicial decision, showing the legal basis for the installation proceedings as perceived by the administration. This position indicates that officials believe the installation was carried out in accordance with legal mandates, despite the public outcry and accusations of imposition from some candidates like Mr. Zoungbada.
Safety Concerns and Aftermath
Police reported that no arrests were recorded during the altercations that took place between security forces and the protesters. This suggests that while there was significant unrest and forceful dispersal, law enforcement did not proceed with detentions. Following the installation, the newly instated mayor was transported to Minusca premises. This measure was undertaken to ensure his safety amidst the ongoing unrest and protests surrounding the municipal authority's installation in Alindao, noting the volatile situation and the need for protective measures for the new official.
Background on Electoral Dispute
The National Electoral Authority (ANE) indicated that no election rerun would occur in Alindao, firmly stating that the electoral process for the commune was concluded. This decision followed the validation of the victory of the MCU candidate by the Constitutional Council on August 26. The Constitutional Council's ruling affirmed the electoral outcome for the municipal position, paving the way for the installation of the new mayor despite ongoing disputes and public opposition. The ANE's stance showed the finality of the electoral process as determined by the judicial body, emphasizing that the legal avenues for challenging the results had been exhausted. The validation by the Constitutional Council solidified the legal basis for the new administration's authority, even as some segments of the population continued to contest the legitimacy of the outcome. This background illustrates the legal framework within which the installation proceeded, despite the public's grievances.
