The SADC has requested a broader panel of peace facilitators in the DRC, challenging Kenya’s influence under President Ruto. A recent Harare meeting highlighted concerns over unilateral decisions and emphasized regional balance and gender inclusivity in mediation efforts. The shift indicates a need for a more collaborative approach to peace processes in Africa.
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has expressed the need for a more extensive and inclusive panel of peace facilitators in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), countering Kenya’s earlier initiative led by President William Ruto. There is emerging resistance to Kenya’s significant involvement in the peace process, leading to concerns about unilateral decision-making and dominance in negotiations.
During a joint EAC-SADC ministerial meeting in Harare, Kenya’s list of facilitators was not openly criticized, but the call for an expanded panel indicates displeasure with Kenya’s assertive diplomatic approach. The communique underlines the need for a diversified group to address the complex mediation process, suggesting more voices should be included.
In February, President Ruto proposed a facilitator list that included prominent figures such as former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta and Nigeria’s Olusegun Obasanjo. However, this list was released without formal SADC approval, raising concerns within the organization. SADC is now advocating for balanced regional representation and advocating for gender inclusivity in the facilitation team.
Proposals from Kinshasa indicate a shift towards possibly including former Ethiopian President Sahle-Work Zewde over Desalegn, who is perceived as closely aligned with Rwanda. This reflects a consensus issue surrounding the existing facilitator list and suggests Kenya may need to revise its strategies moving forward.
This debate surrounding facilitation underlines underlying geopolitical tensions, as Kenya seeks to solidify its diplomatic role across Africa. However, SADC emphasizes the importance of consultation and balance within the peace process, highlighting that regional rivalries can hinder effective conflict resolution efforts in the continent.
The Harare meeting, meant to unify these approaches, instead revealed the complexities of achieving solutions tailored to African issues due to competing interests among regional actors.
The SADC has called for a more inclusive panel of facilitators in the DRC peace process, challenging Kenya’s unilateral initiatives under President Ruto. With a focus on regional balance and gender representation, SADC aims to ensure a collaborative approach to mediation. As Kenya navigates this feedback, it highlights the broader geopolitical dynamics influencing African diplomatic efforts, stressing the need for collective consultation in addressing regional conflicts.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
