Nobel Peace Prize Winner, Mukwege, Declares For Dr Congo Presidency

Renowned surgical gynecologist and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, Dr. Denis Mukwege, announced his candidacy for the presidency of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) during a gathering in the capital city of Kinshasa on Monday. Mukwege, who was jointly awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2018 for his relentless efforts to combat sexual violence as a weapon of war, expressed his determination to lead a nation grappling with insecurity and poor leadership. In his address, the 68-year-old doctor voiced his concerns about the state of the country, stating, "Our country is doing badly. We cannot wait to act. Tomorrow is already too late." Mukwege's decision to enter the presidential race follows months of speculation regarding his political ambitions. He had previously announced on September 16 that his supporters had contributed the necessary $100,000 deposit for his presidential candidacy. Mukwege's reputation as a government critic and his significant following within the intellectual circles of the DR Congo have bolstered his political standing. The DR Congo, plagued by corruption and poverty despite its abundant mineral reserves, is preparing for a pivotal presidential election scheduled for December 20, 2023. Mukwege will be challenging the incumbent President Felix Tshisekedi, who assumed office after the 2018 election. Mukwege's entry into the race adds complexity to an already fractured political landscape. Other declared opposition candidates include Martin Fayulu, a runner-up in the 2018 election, and two former prime ministers of Tshisekedi's predecessor, Joseph Kabila, namely Augustin Matata and Adolphe Muzito. Business magnate Moise Katumbi is also expected to announce his candidacy, further intensifying the competition. The deadline for presidential candidates to enter the race is October 8, 2023, and the election will be held alongside a parliamentary vote. As the political opposition in the DR Congo faces divisions and uncertainties, the upcoming presidential race promises to be a pivotal moment in the nation's political history, with Dr. Denis Mukwege adding his formidable presence to the contest.