Malawi’s President Orders Military Withdrawal from DRC Amid Ongoing Conflict

Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera has ordered the withdrawal of troops from the DRC following recent violence that resulted in the death of peacekeepers. Chakwera’s decision is aimed at fostering peace negotiations despite continued hostilities. The M23 rebel group, which has claimed territory, remains a major threat, complicating the region’s stability.

Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera has mandated the withdrawal of Malawian troops from their peacekeeping duties in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This move follows the recent escalation of violence, exemplified by the deaths of multiple peacekeepers, including members from both South Africa and Malawi, amid assaults executed by the M23 rebel group, particularly after their capture of Goma.

President Chakwera stated that the withdrawal aligns with a declared ceasefire agreement from conflicting parties, despite ongoing hostilities. He emphasized that this decision is intended to create an environment conducive to negotiations aimed at achieving lasting peace in the region. Malawi’s Information Minister, Moses Kunkuyu, affirmed that this action is part of a broader resolution by southern African leaders supporting a ceasefire to facilitate peaceful discussions.

Although there was no specific timeline for the troop withdrawal mentioned, Chakwera acknowledged that preparatory operational details were being finalized. The situation remains precarious as the M23 rebel group, although having declared a ceasefire for humanitarian reasons, has resumed fighting and continues territorial advances, causing further instability in the region.

The Malawian leadership has faced significant pressure to withdraw from the DRC following rising casualties among peacekeepers, contrasting with South Africa’s decision to maintain its troop presence due to their participation in the SAMIDRC mission, which has defined operational timelines. Furthermore, the M23 rebels continue to pose a significant threat, both in military terms and socio-economic terms, with local authorities struggling to protect urban areas against their advances.

The Democratic Republic of Congo has been embroiled in conflict for several years, with various armed groups, including the M23 rebel faction, vying for control over territories, particularly in the eastern regions. This violence has led to numerous casualties among military personnel deployed for peacekeeping, highlighting the challenges faced by international and regional forces. The SAMIDRC mission plays a crucial role in attempting to stabilize the area, which has experienced a recent uptick in violence, further complicating peace efforts and prompting calls for ceasefire and negotiations among involved parties.

In summary, President Lazarus Chakwera’s order for the withdrawal of Malawian troops from the DRC peacekeeping mission highlights ongoing complexities within the region. The decision aims to support peace negotiations amid persistent violence from rebel factions. As efforts continue to stabilize the area and protect civilian lives, the international community’s involvement remains essential in addressing the underlying causes of conflict.

Original Source: www.bbc.com