Malawi President Lazarus Chakwera has ordered a withdrawal of troops from the DR Congo following the deaths of peacekeepers during conflict with M23 rebels. This decision aligns with a recent ceasefire resolution aimed at facilitating peace talks. Minister Moses Kunkuyu indicated the withdrawal is a goodwill gesture, while regional tensions and violence persist as M23 continues to expand control in the area.
Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera has mandated the military to prepare for the withdrawal of Malawian troops from their peacekeeping operations in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo). This action follows the recent deaths of peacekeepers, including three Malawians, during violent clashes as the M23 rebel group seized control of Goma, the provincial capital of North Kivu. The decision to withdraw is intended to honor a ceasefire declaration, despite ongoing conflict in the region.
The Malawian government, through Information Minister Moses Kunkuyu, characterized the planned troop withdrawal as a gesture made in good faith towards fostering peace negotiations. This move aligns with a recent resolution from a meeting of southern African leaders in Tanzania, which encouraged a ceasefire to facilitate constructive dialogue among conflicting parties. The Malawian president has communicated the decision to both the Congolese president and the southern African regional bloc.
While an explicit timeline for the exit of troops has not been announced, President Chakwera indicated that operational details are being finalized. The M23 rebel group had previously announced a temporary ceasefire for humanitarian purposes; however, fighting resumed shortly thereafter as the rebels expanded their territorial ambitions into South Kivu. Additionally, local authorities have mobilized civilian volunteers to bolster defenses in response to the ongoing violence.
The situation remains tense as the M23 rebels have been engaged in a violent campaign since capturing Goma, resulting in significant casualties, including nearly 3,000 deaths. Local health risks, such as Mpox and cholera infections, are also of increasing concern as the instability continues. Meanwhile, South Africa faces similar calls for troop withdrawal, although President Cyril Ramaphosa has committed to maintaining South African forces deployed under the regional military mission.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has been embroiled in conflict for years, particularly in the eastern provinces where various armed groups, including the M23 rebels, operate. The M23 group, backed by Rwanda, has aimed to gain control over territories, including key urban areas such as Goma and Bukavu. Recent escalations in violence have prompted discussions among regional leaders about the need for a ceasefire and peace negotiations. The SAMIDRC mission, involving peacekeeping forces from southern African nations, was initiated in response to insecurity in the region, but has faced criticism in light of recent fatalities among peacekeepers.
In conclusion, President Lazarus Chakwera of Malawi has ordered the withdrawal of troops from DR Congo amidst ongoing violence and the fallout from recent clashes that resulted in peacekeeper deaths. This step reflects a commitment to supporting ceasefire efforts and negotiations aimed at establishing lasting peace in a region marred by conflict. The situation remains precarious as both regional dynamics and the actions of armed groups continue to challenge stability in eastern Congo.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
