The Southern African Development Community (SADC) will withdraw troops from the DRC in a phased manner, following significant casualties in the region. This decision coincides with new peace talks between DRC and M23 rebels starting next week, aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict that has resulted in major territorial gains for M23 and substantial loss of life.
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has announced its decision to conduct a phased withdrawal of troops from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) amid ongoing conflict, particularly with the advancing M23 rebel group. The SADC, which consists of 16 member nations, held a virtual summit where it was reported that the deployment of troops, known as SAMIDRC, will be terminated due to mounting casualties, including at least twelve soldiers lost this year.
At the summit, attended by the regional leaders, a communique stated that the withdrawal of SAMIDRC troops would commence. This decision comes on the heels of Angola’s announcement regarding the initiation of direct peace talks between the DRC and the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, scheduled to begin next week.
Since January, M23 has rapidly gained control over significant areas in eastern DRC, leading to a reported death toll of approximately 7,000 individuals. South Africa, a prominent contributor to the SAMIDRC deployment with about 1,000 troops, has already suffered losses, including the casualties of fourteen soldiers earlier this year.
SADC Chairperson and Zimbabwean President, Emmerson Mnangagwa, emphasized the need for immediate action to resolve the conflict during the summit, highlighting its destabilizing effects beyond the DRC. Accompanied by a renewed commitment to inclusive dialogue, he welcomed the review of the current mandate regarding the DRC.
On a related note, President João Lourenço of Angola announced that negotiations between the DRC and M23 would commence on March 18 in Luanda. Despite initially resisting dialogue with M23, Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi is now considering the latest Angolan proposal for peace talks, with emphasis on accountability regarding Rwandan involvement.
The decision to withdraw SADC troops has been interpreted as a setback for President Tshisekedi’s administration, which has faced criticism regarding its handling of the M23 threat. Additionally, Rwanda’s Foreign Minister, Olivier Nduhungirehe, stated that the withdrawal could promote peace in eastern DRC, despite ongoing allegations of Rwandan troop support to M23.
In conclusion, the SADC has opted for a phased withdrawal of its troops from the DRC against the background of increasing conflicts and losses within their ranks. The forthcoming peace talks between the DRC and M23 could be pivotal for regional stability, however, challenges remain regarding foreign involvement and the effectiveness of the DRC’s administration in addressing the crisis. The decisions made at this juncture will significantly shape the future landscape of peace in the region.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
