The remains of 14 South African soldiers killed in the DRC are returning on Wednesday, following significant unrest due to fighting involving the M23 armed group. The defence minister faced criticism in parliament over troop conditions and demands for withdrawal increase as scrutiny of the mission’s efficacy rises. Upcoming negotiations between regional leaders may seek to address ongoing hostilities.
The remains of 14 South African soldiers killed in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) conflict are set to return home on Wednesday. The defence force officials faced scrutiny in a parliamentary committee about South Africa’s involvement in DRC, especially in light of the recent territorial gains by the Rwandan-backed M23 armed group. Calls for troop withdrawal are increasing, highlighting concerns about the soldiers’ safety.
The deaths of nine South African soldiers were confirmed on January 25, followed by three more three days later, with two additional fatalities from injuries sustained in combat. Most casualties were part of a Southern African Development Community (SADC) mission launched in 2023 to support the DRC government amid escalating unrest in its mineral-rich regions.
At least two of the fallen soldiers were serving in a separate UN peacekeeping force. Frustration within parliament over the lack of updates on the condition of troops still deployed in DRC led to demands for clarity on the repatriation process. General Rudzani Maphwanya assured that remains would be returned, but specifics were not provided.
Both Maphwanya and Defence Minister Angie Motshekga defended South Africa’s military contribution to the DRC mission, stating the troops were adequately trained and resourced. However, there were concerns that soldiers might be under-equipped and struggling to vacate the area safely. After the hearing, the Democratic Alliance party criticized Motshekga for not answering essential questions about the situation on the ground.
The escalation of violence in eastern DRC has renewed calls for diplomatic discussions. Upcoming talks between Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame are scheduled to take place in Tanzania, aimed at resolving ongoing tensions.
This article discusses the recent fatalities of South African soldiers in the DRC amid a conflict involving the M23 armed group, which has gained control over significant territories. The South African deployment is part of a broader mission of the SADC formed to support the DRC government, indicating the complexities of international military cooperation in conflict zones. The mention of political ramifications and calls for troop withdrawal highlights the domestic implications of foreign military engagements in South Africa.
The return of the 14 South African soldiers’ remains underscores the grave consequences of military involvement in foreign conflicts. The tensions surrounding the DRC mission reflect broader issues of military resource allocation and political accountability. With rising calls for troop withdrawal, the South African government faces scrutiny regarding its international military engagements and the safety of its personnel abroad.
Original Source: jordantimes.com
