Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera has ordered the withdrawal of troops from the peacekeeping mission in DR Congo following violence that resulted in the deaths of soldiers. This decision aims to support ongoing peace negotiations despite ongoing unrest. The Malawian withdrawal is part of a broader strategy to facilitate dialogue among conflicting parties in the region.
Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera has ordered the military to prepare for the withdrawal of Malawian troops from their peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo). This decision is influenced by recent violence and the deaths of peacekeepers, specifically during battles involving M23 rebels who captured Goma, North Kivu’s capital.
In announcing the withdrawal, President Chakwera emphasized his intention to honor a ceasefire agreement among conflicting parties, despite ongoing fighting. He expressed hope that this action would facilitate future negotiations aimed at achieving lasting peace in the region.
The Malawian Information Minister, Moses Kunkuyu, described the withdrawal as a gesture of goodwill, stemming from a resolution made at a meeting of southern African leaders in Tanzania, calling for a ceasefire to promote peaceful discussions. The timeline for the troop’s exit remains unclear, with operational arrangements still being finalized.
While M23 rebels declared a ceasefire for humanitarian reasons, clashes have resumed, leading to their continued territorial advances in South Kivu. Meanwhile, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has decided to maintain his country’s troop presence, attributing this to the structured mission frameworks set for the Southern African regional bloc (SAMIDRC).
The conflict has resulted in considerable devastation, with nearly 3,000 fatalities attributed to the M23’s activities in Goma. Concerns regarding diseases such as Mpox and cholera spreading from the area have also been raised, underscoring the humanitarian crisis still unfolding in the region.
The situation in DR Congo is complex, influenced by decades of conflict and the presence of various armed groups, including the M23 rebels. Tensions escalated following the rebel’s seizure of Goma, prompting international peacekeeping efforts. Malawi’s participation in peacekeeping is part of a broader initiative by the Southern African Development Community to stabilize the region. Recent fatalities among peacekeepers have raised questions about the safety and effectiveness of these missions.
Malawi’s decision to withdraw its troops from DR Congo reflects ongoing concerns about peace and safety in a region plagued by violence. While aimed at fostering negotiation efforts, this action comes amidst a turbulent backdrop of renewed fighting and humanitarian challenges. The developments highlight the critical balance between military intervention and diplomatic resolutions in conflict resolution efforts.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
