Malawi President Orders Troop Withdrawal from DR Congo Amid Ongoing Conflict
Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera has ordered the withdrawal of troops from the Democratic Republic of Congo amid rising violence from M23 rebels, which resulted in the deaths of peacekeepers. The decision is intended to support peace negotiations despite ongoing hostilities. Local and regional security efforts are further complicated by calls for troop withdrawals and the rebels’ continued assaults on key territories.
Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera has directed the military to prepare for the withdrawal of troops from their peacekeeping efforts in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. This action follows recent violence involving the M23 rebel group, which has led to the death of multiple peacekeepers. The troops, part of the Southern African regional bloc’s military mission, were deployed to help combat armed groups in the region.
President Chakwera’s decision, announced on state television, aims to honor a ceasefire agreement despite ongoing conflicts. He expressed that the withdrawal would facilitate negotiations for lasting peace. Malawi’s Information Minister, Moses Kunkuyu, indicated that this step aligns with a recent resolution by southern African leaders to support peaceful negotiations in the conflict.
While the exact timeline for the withdrawal remains unspecified, President Chakwera stated that the operational aspects are in communication with both DR Congo’s president and the regional bloc. Tensions persist as the M23 group declared a ceasefire for humanitarian reasons, which has not effectively halted the hostilities, with the rebels continuing to advance.
In light of growing pressures, both Malawi and South Africa face calls to withdraw their forces following the fatalities among peacekeepers. Nevertheless, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has committed to maintaining troop presence, citing the established operational timeframes of the SAMIDRC mission. The regional stability has been further threatened as the M23 rebels seek control of additional territories, prompting the Congolese military to enlist local volunteers for city defense.
Following the capture of Goma, it is reported that nearly 3,000 individuals lost their lives amid the M23’s efforts for territorial expansion. The UN has raised alarms regarding potential outbreaks of diseases such as Mpox and cholera that could affect the broader region.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has experienced ongoing conflict primarily fueled by various armed groups, including the M23 rebels, whose violent campaigns have resulted in significant casualties and territorial disputes. The Southern African regional bloc intervened with a military mission aimed at stabilizing the region and curtailing violence. Recent events have underscored the dangers faced by peacekeepers as rebel factions intensify military operations. Malawi’s involvement in peacekeeping missions is part of broader regional security cooperation, but the evident risks have prompted increased scrutiny and pressure on national leaders regarding troop deployments. Ceasefire agreements and peace negotiations are critical components for restoring stability in affected areas. Educational campaigns and local volunteer initiatives are being mobilized as part of the Congolese authorities’ strategies to protect cities like Bukavu from ongoing assaults. International watchdogs are closely monitoring the situation as humanitarian needs grow amidst escalating violence.
In summary, President Chakwera’s order for troop withdrawal from DR Congo arises amid ongoing conflicts and significant losses among peacekeepers. The decision aims to support peace negotiations following an unresolved ceasefire agreement. While Malawi’s commitment may enhance diplomatic efforts in the region, the persistent threat posed by the M23 rebels exacerbates an already fragile security landscape. Vigilance remains essential as humanitarian crises loom in the wake of the violence.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
