Joseph Kabila Suspends Studies to Address Crisis in Eastern DR Congo
Joseph Kabila, former President of the DRC, has paused his studies at the University of Johannesburg to address the escalating situation in his country. He emphasized the collective responsibility of Congolese citizens in addressing national challenges and highlighted the necessity of peace for the nation’s development. Kabila also discussed the importance of direct engagement with the Congolese population in mediation efforts and reflected on past peace initiatives, asserting that unity is vital for stability and progress.
Joseph Kabila, the former President of the Democratic Republic of Congo, has temporarily suspended his studies at the University of Johannesburg to focus on the escalating situation in his country. This announcement was made during an interview with the Namibia Broadcasting Corporation while he was in Namibia to attend the funeral of former President Sam Nujoma. Kabila expressed that, while he had been engaged in various endeavors including academic pursuits, the worsening conditions in the DRC necessitated his increased involvement at home.
Kabila confirmed that he halted his academic activities at the University of Johannesburg approximately two to three months ago to dedicate himself to the critical situation in the DRC. He explained that the responsibility he feels toward his homeland has taken precedence, stating that if the circumstances there deteriorate further, he must act to prevent a national crisis. Kabila underlined the importance of addressing these severe issues singularly rather than attempting to multitask given their significant nature.
In response to rumors regarding his emergence from political obscurity, Kabila insisted that he has never been in the shadows and has continually engaged with significant matters affecting both his studies and the DRC. He highlighted the collective responsibility of all Congolese citizens in addressing the nation’s challenges, emphasizing that solutions cannot be the burden of one individual alone.
Kabila addressed the notion of his role in stabilizing the DRC and cautioned against oversimplifying the complexity of the situation; he stated, “The Congo is a nation of 120 million people. It has neighbours—not just those immediately surrounding it… Every Congolese citizen has a role to play.” He reiterated the necessity of channeling good intentions towards resolving the crisis and enhancing national cohesion.
Reflecting on previous peace accords, Kabila cited the importance of addressing root causes such as governance problems and injustices that perpetuate conflict. He affirmed the necessity of peace for economic prosperity, declaring that development cannot occur in an atmosphere of instability. Kabila recalled the effectiveness of previous agreements like the Lusaka Agreement, underscoring that successful negotiation and military capacity-building had previously restored peace to a significant portion of the region.
Kabila also commented on the withdrawal of foreign troops, referencing a decisive moment in 2001 when all foreign military presence was removed to allow Congolese people to manage their own issues. However, he indicated that the strategy may require a new approach today, cautioning against a repeat of historical measures without careful consideration.
On the topic of mediation efforts in the ongoing crisis, Kabila emphasized the necessity of direct engagement with Congolese citizens by any mediators, including foreign leaders. He noted that the success of any mediation must include goodwill, active involvement of the citizens, and guarantees for a sustainable resolution. Kabila refrained from making any judgments about current mediation initiatives, suggesting that they are still in their early stages.
Regarding his relationship with current DRC President Félix Tshisekedi, Kabila recalled their initial coalition government formed after his presidency, which ended when President Tshisekedi chose to dissolve it. Kabila acknowledged this decision and the subsequent divergence in their political paths.
In conclusion, Joseph Kabila’s recent decision to suspend his academic pursuits underscores his commitment to addressing the escalating crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Through engagement with Congolese citizens and a focus on political stability, Kabila emphasizes the collective responsibility for national challenges. His reflections on past peace agreements and the necessity of thoughtful mediation serve as critical reminders of the complex dynamics at play in the region. As Kabila reaffirms his priorities, the future of DRC remains contingent upon collective action and cohesive leadership.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw
