South Africa reinforces its support for the DRC following troop fatalities amid escalating conflict with M23 rebels. President Ramaphosa insists on international collaboration for peace while addressing calls for troop withdrawal. The SADC maintains its mission despite concerns over military resources and capabilities amid budget cuts.
President Cyril Ramaphosa affirmed South Africa’s continued support for the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) despite calls to withdraw troops following the deaths of 14 South African soldiers. The recent advances by the Rwanda-backed M23 militia in eastern DRC have heightened tensions, notably with the capture of the strategic city of Goma and threats to march to the capital, Kinshasa. This conflict, rooted in decades of strife among various armed factions, has triggered emergency summits across the continent.
Ramaphosa emphasized the necessity of collaborative international efforts to establish peace in the eastern DRC, stating, “Achieving a lasting peace and security for the eastern DRC and the region requires the collective will of the community of nations.” Calls for troop withdrawal have been voiced, notably by the Economic Freedom Fighters party, with leader Julius Malema labeling the deployment as “reckless and unjustifiable” due to escalating hostilities from the M23 rebels.
In response to the growing crisis, Ramaphosa clarified that the Southern African Development Community (SADC) mission has a set timeline and predefined objectives. He remarked, “The mission will wind down in accordance with the implementation of various confidence-building measures and when the ceasefire we have called for takes root.” He asserted that a sustainable peace necessitates an immediate cessation of hostilities.
SADC recently convened with the East African Community to strategize on the deteriorating security in Congo. This summit reiterated unwavering support for DRC and collaboration on mediation initiatives led by Angola and Kenya. Additional actions included dispatching officials to ensure the safety of SADC troops and facilitate the proper repatriation of casualties.
Concerns have arisen regarding the adequacy of support and resources available to the South African National Defense Force due to government budget constraints. The Democratic Alliance has called for parliamentary discussions on military deployment, questioning the lack of essential support such as air cover. This raises wider concerns about the ramifications of increasing military mandates in light of diminishing funding.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has long faced conflict fueled by myriad armed groups vying for control over its mineral-rich territories. The situation intensified recently when the M23, a group reportedly backed by Rwanda, made significant territorial gains in the east, particularly the capture of Goma. The involvement of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) reflects regional efforts to stabilize the DRC and support peacekeeping missions amidst escalating violence and international diplomatic urgency.
In summary, South Africa remains committed to supporting the DRC amid regional instability and calls for troop withdrawal following casualties. President Ramaphosa’s assurances highlight the importance of persistent international cooperation to attain lasting peace. Despite governmental budget constraints impacting military readiness, tactical discussions and strategic summits among regional partners continue to shape responses to the ongoing conflict.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
