South African troops in the eastern DRC under the Southern African Development Community Mission are in urgent need of repatriation, facing severe shortages and safety concerns. Reports reveal unaddressed needs and calls for withdrawal are mounting as the situation with M23 rebels deteriorates. Military experts advocate for the safety and urgent return of these soldiers amid growing instability.
South African troops stationed in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) under the Southern African Development Community Mission are facing severe challenges and are eager to return home. Reports indicate that over a thousand soldiers in Goma are struggling with shortages of food and essential supplies, leading to rising concerns over their safety and well-being. Messages received by the South African National Defence Union (Sandu) highlight the urgent need for better support from the South African government.
Military leaders are pressing for the withdrawal of South African troops from the DRC, citing the deteriorating conditions and the questionable effectiveness of their mission against the M23 rebels. The troops are part of a coalition effort alongside the Congolese and Burundian armies, as well as international mercenaries. However, recent failures to combat the M23’s advances, including their capture of key cities like Goma, have further complicated the situation.
The South African soldiers find themselves in a precarious position, having been surrounded by M23 rebels and experiencing significant casualties, including 14 personnel killed and numerous others injured. Experts argue that the South African government should prioritize the safety of its soldiers and facilitate their safe evacuation from the region. Defence Minister Angie Motshekga previously asserted that the South African forces had adequate military resources when deployed to confront the M23 rebels’ aggression.
The state of the troops has attracted public attention following these developments, especially as Malawi’s president has announced the withdrawal of his own country’s forces. With recent repatriations and the surrender of numerous coalition fighters, the situation remains tense. Experts warn that the lives of South African soldiers are hanging in the balance as they await further direction from their government.
In summary, South African troops in the DRC are in a precarious and vulnerable position, grappling with severe shortages and unsafe conditions. Calls for their withdrawal are intensifying amidst insights from military experts regarding the futility of their current mandate. As the overall situation continues to deteriorate with increasing risks, the South African government faces pressure to ensure the safe extraction of its soldiers.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw
