The SADC has announced a phased withdrawal of its troops from the DRC following heavy losses amid M23’s advances. A summit highlighted the need for urgent peace talks, set to begin between the DRC and M23, mediated by Angola. The dynamics remain complex due to Rwanda’s alleged support for M23, adding challenges to peace efforts.
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has announced it will execute a “phased withdrawal” of its troops from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This decision follows a virtual summit attended by leaders from the 16-nation bloc, which has experienced significant losses, including the deaths of at least a dozen soldiers in fighting this year. The withdrawal comes as M23, a rebel group backed by Rwanda, has rapidly advanced in eastern DRC since January, seizing critical cities such as Goma and Bukavu.
In light of recent events, the SADC mission, also known as SAMIDRC, is set to conclude after providing support to the DRC government in restoring peace amid a tumultuous climate that has persisted for three decades. The total number of deaths attributed to the conflict has reached at least 7,000, stressing the urgency for a resolution.
Chairperson of SADC and President of Zimbabwe, Emmerson Mnangagwa, emphasized the need for a “greater sense of urgency” to stop the violence, which has implications beyond the DRC’s borders. He advocated for inclusive dialogue and acknowledged that reassessing the DRC mission’s mandate was timely given the escalation of hostilities.
Meanwhile, Angola has mediated talks set to initiate between the DRC and M23 rebel factions, beginning March 18 in Luanda. President Joao Lourenco’s previous engagement with Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi indicates an openness to dialogue that has been previously resisted, particularly due to Rwanda’s involvement.
As the DRC government navigates this process, it seeks to limit the duration of negotiations. Some unnamed sources indicated that while communication with M23 is underway, it does not absolve Rwanda from accountability for its support of the insurgents. The SADC’s withdrawal is perceived as an additional challenge for President Tshisekedi, who has faced scrutiny over his administration’s handling of the M23 situation.
In response to the developments, Rwanda’s Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe remarked that the SADC withdrawal was “a good decision that will contribute to peace” in the region. However, United Nations experts suggest that Rwanda maintains a significant military presence in eastern DRC, actively supporting M23, a claim Rwanda disputes.
In summary, the SADC’s phased withdrawal from the DRC marks a critical moment in the ongoing conflict, particularly against the backdrop of M23’s territorial gains and rising casualties. The recent summit highlighted the urgent need for action and dialogue, with Angola facilitating upcoming peace discussions. However, the situation remains complex, as external influences, specifically from Rwanda, complicate the peace process, casting uncertainty over future stability in the region.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
