The DRC’s military faces significant challenges against the M23 rebel group, including systemic corruption, inadequate training, and foreign military support. Despite a large number of personnel, FARDC’s effectiveness is undermined by low morale, poor logistics, and historical governance issues, complicating efforts at military reform.
Since January, the M23 rebel group has gained control of Goma and Bukavu in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), establishing governance in these regions. Despite the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC) comprising approximately 135,000 soldiers, the M23, with only a few thousand fighters and support from Rwandan troops, has successfully seized territory. This situation raises concerns about FARDC’s effectiveness despite significant military budget increases under President Felix Tshisekedi.
One critical factor in FARDC’s struggle is systemic corruption, which has led to mismanagement of military funds. Alain De Neve from the Royal Higher Institute for Defence highlights the issue of funds disappearing meant for soldiers’ salaries and logistics, resulting in low morale and desertion rates among troops. Many soldiers resort to looting local populations for survival, indicating a breakdown in military discipline.
Furthermore, military leaders reportedly inflate soldier numbers to receive additional funds from the capital. Jakob Kerstan explained that this misrepresentation allows generals to gain financial benefits, accentuating the corruption within the ranks of FARDC. As soldiers face poor wages, many compare their salaries unfavorably to foreign mercenaries, leading to demoralization and a lack of unity within the army.
The FARDC faces entrenched issues, such as inadequate training and outdated equipment. Unlike M23 fighters who receive structured training, FARDC personnel struggle with logistics and coordination, often communicating through informal channels such as WhatsApp. This lack of effective communication hampers operational efficiency and complicates military directives from Kinshasa.
Additionally, nepotism and fear of coups hinder military professionalism. Competence often takes a backseat to loyalty in selecting military commanders, affecting tactical decisions made on the ground. Ciaran Wrons-Passmann noted a constant rotation of leadership, indicating a struggle to establish a consistent and competent military command structure.
The legacy of previous rulers, such as Mobutu Sese Seko, who feared a strong military, has led to a weakened army where internal divisions persist. The DRC’s military history is marred by influences from foreign entities, notably Rwanda, complicating its structure and efforts for reform. This situation contributes to the current reluctance among the Congolese government to negotiate with the M23.
Rwanda’s military organization significantly impacts the ongoing conflict, as President Tshisekedi has acknowledged the betrayal stemming from within the armed forces. Reforming the DRC’s military is a lengthy process, as stated by government spokesman Patrick Muyaya, emphasizing the challenge in transforming the armed forces within a short timeframe. The current turmoil reflects deep-rooted issues that require comprehensive and enduring solutions in military policy and governance.
The article outlines the challenges faced by the DRC’s army, FARDC, in countering the M23 rebel group, characterized by systemic corruption, inadequate military training, and foreign influence. Despite an increase in military spending, FARDC struggles with low morale, poor logistic management, and internal divisions rooted in historical governance issues. The ongoing influence of Rwandan forces and the complexities of military reform highlight the difficulties in addressing these longstanding problems, underscoring the necessity for a comprehensive approach to rebuilding the military and restoring effective governance in the DRC.
Original Source: www.dw.com
