African leaders announced the withdrawal of troops from South Africa, Tanzania, and Malawi from eastern Congo due to public opposition after the killing of peacekeepers. The decision came after a SADC meeting and prior to peace talks hosted by Angola between the Congolese government and M23 rebels.
African leaders have decided to withdraw thousands of troops from South Africa, Tanzania, and Malawi, initially deployed to combat insurgents in the conflict-ridden eastern Congo. This area, rich in minerals, has seen escalating violence, particularly from M23 rebels who have killed peacekeepers this year. The troop deployment occurred in 2023 under the authorization of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), but significant public opposition has arisen due to the loss of 14 South African and three Malawian peacekeepers in January.
The announcement of troop withdrawal followed a virtual meeting among the 16-member SADC bloc. This decision was made just one day after Angola declared its intention to host peace talks aimed at resolving the conflict between the Congolese government and the M23 rebels. The withdrawal reflects growing concerns regarding the safety and effectiveness of the peacekeeping mission in eastern Congo amid the increasing casualties and public discontent.
The decision by South Africa, Tanzania, and Malawi to withdraw troops from eastern Congo underscores the complexities of the ongoing conflict and the challenges faced by peacekeeping missions in the region. With significant public opposition and casualties among peacekeepers, regional leaders are reassessing their strategies. The upcoming peace talks in Angola may represent a critical opportunity to address the escalating violence and seek a resolution to the conflict between the Congolese government and the M23 rebels.
Original Source: www.voiceofalexandria.com
