Ahead of a summit in Tanzania, President Ramaphosa announces a demand for an immediate ceasefire in the DRC, emphasizing African unity for peace. Escalating violence from M23 rebels raises concerns about a possible regional conflict. The summit aims for a diplomatic resolution, urging all parties to honor peace agreements, amid heightened tensions between South Africa and Rwanda.
During an upcoming SADC-East African Community summit in Tanzania, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that regional leaders will advocate for an immediate ceasefire in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). He reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to peace in Africa, highlighting that resolving the DRC conflict is key to the continent’s stability. Ramaphosa stated, “For Africa to thrive, we must silence the guns on the continent.”
The summit addresses escalating violence attributed to M23 rebels, who have not adhered to their announced ceasefire. Authorities report that M23 is advancing toward Bukavu, raising concerns about potential military maneuvers under the guise of a truce. Deputy Speaker Vital Kamerhe expressed worries about M23 forces nearing urban centers, contradicting their claims of cessation.
Ramaphosa emphasized adherence to diplomatic processes and called on all factions to commit to peace agreements like the Luanda Process. He accentuated the importance of the summit in unifying regional leaders to prevent further escalation into a broader conflict, drawing key heads of state from involved nations.
South Africa’s military presence in the DRC under the SADC Mission was defended by Ramaphosa, describing it as part of the commitment to regional stability. He cited historical interventions by SADC in other African conflict zones, indicating the ongoing efforts to stabilize volatile regions. Tensions between South Africa and Rwanda have increased, with allegations against Kigali supporting M23, necessitating a strong regional response.
The summit comes at a pivotal time, with external pressures from Western nations demanding Rwanda cease its support for M23. The UN Security Council echoed the need for an end to hostilities and the withdrawal of foreign troops, underscoring the seriousness of the situation. Despite Ramaphosa’s calls for peace, the commitment of M23 and its allies to ceasefire remains uncertain.
As leaders gather in Tanzania, the emphasis will be on a unified stance demanding peace in the DRC to avert a potential regional conflict. Ramaphosa reiterated South Africa’s dedication to supporting liberation movements, stating, “We have always believed that the freedom we won… imposes a duty on us to support the struggles of those who continue to experience colonialism and oppression.”
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has been embroiled in prolonged conflicts, significantly escalating in violence lately, particularly due to the activities of M23 rebels claiming territory and governing in eastern regions. The DRC’s instability poses a risk of spilling over into surrounding countries, urging regional bodies like SADC and the EAC to intervene. Diplomatic efforts have been made to facilitate peace talks and ceasefires, underscoring the urgency of the situation amidst ongoing humanitarian crises.
The upcoming summit in Tanzania is critical for diplomatic resolutions regarding the DRC conflict. With South Africa advocating for a ceasefire and the commitment of all involved parties to peace negotiations, the potential for averting a regional crisis hinges on the outcome of these discussions. The situation remains tense, and the effectiveness of the ceasefire will likely depend on the cooperation and sincerity of the conflicting factions.
Original Source: chimpreports.com
