Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera has ordered the withdrawal of troops from the Democratic Republic of Congo in response to a ceasefire declaration. M23 rebels captured Nyabibwe, complicating peace efforts. Ongoing discussions about military presence in the region and the humanitarian crisis persist amid tensions with Rwanda.
President Lazarus Chakwera of Malawi has instructed the Malawi Defence Force (MDF) to initiate preparations for the withdrawal of troops stationed in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo). This decision aligns with the recent declaration of a ceasefire by conflicting parties in the region, facilitating negotiations aimed at achieving enduring peace. The Malawian troops were part of a Southern African Development Community (SADC) mission deployed to combat armed insurgency in DR Congo, which received an extension last year.
Despite the ceasefire announced by the M23 rebel alliance for humanitarian purposes, they have reportedly captured the town of Nyabibwe in South Kivu province. This action has raised concerns regarding compliance with the ceasefire as it progresses toward Bukavu, the provincial capital. Local officials and civil society members confirmed the town’s fall to the rebels, noting that fighting had yielded significant control by M23 by mid-morning.
The Communications Minister of DR Congo, Patrick Muyaya, stated that the rebels had breached the ceasefire agreement during the night and faced defense from local armed forces. The M23’s territorial gains indicate a resurgence in their campaign, significant since their previous control of Goma, which has exacerbated humanitarian crises and fears of further regional conflict. Accusations against Rwanda for supporting the M23 to exploit DR Congo’s mineral wealth remain contentious.
The International Committee of the Red Cross reported that their medical facilities in Goma were looted, necessitating support from other humanitarian organizations while they recover supplies. Meanwhile, discussions are ongoing in Kinshasa among MPs regarding solutions to the conflict, with a summit involving eastern and southern African leaders scheduled soon. President Tshisekedi has sought input from parliament to ensure valid representation in addressing the crisis.
Tensions between DR Congo and Rwanda have arisen, particularly surrounding the SADC’s military presence. Rwanda advocates for the withdrawal of SADC troops, while DR Congo calls for a reinforcement of the mission to combat rebellion, underscoring the complexities of regional dynamics in East and Southern Africa.
The article discusses Malawi’s decision to withdraw its troops from the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) following a ceasefire announcement amid ongoing conflict with the M23 rebel group. It outlines the role of the Malawi Defence Force as part of a broader SADC mission aimed at stabilizing the area and contends with the ramifications of recent rebel advances and their implications for regional security. Moreover, it highlights ongoing parliamentary discussions within DR Congo regarding conflict resolution and the impact of external pressures from neighboring states, particularly Rwanda.
In summary, Malawi’s ordered troop withdrawal from DR Congo underlines a shift towards potential peace negotiations following a declared ceasefire, despite ongoing advances by the M23 rebels. Tensions continue to rise surrounding the regional military mission and humanitarian crises in the region, necessitating urgent dialogue among affected nations. The situation indicates a complex interplay of local and regional politics, affecting both governance and security in the eastern DRC.
Original Source: www.southernhighlandnews.com.au
