The SADC plans a phased withdrawal of troops from the DRC, facing losses while discussing peace talks with M23 rebels. The conflict has escalated since January, resulting in considerable casualties and territorial gains for M23. Dialogue is set to begin shortly, highlighting the ongoing complexities in the region’s security situation.
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has announced a phased withdrawal of its troops from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), following significant losses in 2023, specifically 14 South African and three Malawian soldiers. Leaders of the 16-nation bloc, during a recent virtual summit, reviewed the escalating conflict in the eastern DRC, a region plagued by unrest for over 30 years. The withdrawal decision coincides with peace talks set to take place between the DRC and the M23 rebel group, backed by Rwanda.
A communique from the summit indicated that SADC’s deployment, known as SAMIDRC, would be terminated. The advance of M23 rebels in the eastern DRC has captured key cities such as Goma and Bukavu, amid escalating violence that has claimed at least 7,000 lives since January. Officials did not disclose specifics regarding troop numbers; however, South Africa had sent a contingent of approximately 1,000 soldiers.
SADC Chairperson and Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa highlighted the need for urgent resolution of the conflict at the summit, emphasizing inclusivity in dialogue. The Angolan presidential office revealed that direct peace talks between the DRC and M23 rebels are scheduled to initiate on March 18 in Luanda. This development is influenced by recent meetings between Angolan President Joao Lourenco and DRC President Felix Tshisekedi.
Sources close to the Congolese government suggested that while dialogue with M23 is starting, it does not absolve Rwanda of its alleged support for the rebels. The SADC’s withdrawal leaves President Tshisekedi vulnerable to criticism over his response to the M23’s advances, while Rwanda’s Foreign Minister deemed the withdrawal a positive step towards stabilizing the eastern DRC. UN experts have accused Rwanda of backing M23 with military support, which Rwanda has denied.
The SADC’s decision to withdraw its forces from the DRC amid ongoing conflict reflects the challenges faced in stabilizing the region. With significant troop losses and the advancing M23 group, the urgency for peace talks underscores the complexities of regional security dynamics. The upcoming dialogue between the DRC and M23 suggests a potential shift in strategy, although concerns about Rwanda’s support for the rebels continue to linger.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
