SADC Announces Phased Troop Withdrawal from DRC Amid Rising Conflict with M23

The Southern African Development Community (SADC) plans a phased withdrawal of troops from the Democratic Republic of the Congo amid ongoing conflicts with M23 rebels, following significant troop losses. The withdrawal coincides with upcoming peace talks facilitated by Angola between the DRC and M23. Leaders emphasize the urgent need for a controlled approach to address the prolonged violence, which has reportedly resulted in thousands of casualties.

The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has announced a phased withdrawal of its troops from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) amid ongoing conflict with the M23 rebel group. After enduring significant losses this year, the regional bloc convened a virtual summit to address the deteriorating situation in the area, which has experienced instability for nearly three decades. So far, at least a dozen soldiers have been reported dead in DRC since January 2023.

The SADC’s mission, known as SAMIDRC, is set to conclude as leaders emphasized a need for urgent action toward ending the violence. Notably, Angola has recently facilitated the initiation of peace talks between DRC and the M23 group, slated to begin next week. The SADC communique confirmed the termination of SAMIDRC’s deployment while issuing directions for the withdrawal of troops.

M23’s advancement has resulted in the capture of strategic locations in eastern DRC, including Goma and Bukavu. The Congolese government estimates that approximately 7,000 lives have been lost due to the renewed conflict since January. While the exact size of the military presence has not been disclosed, South Africa is believed to contribute the majority of the troops, with approximately 1,000 soldiers deployed, many of whom were part of the SADC mission.

During the summit, SADC chairperson and Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa stressed the need for an inclusive dialogue, deeming a review of the DRC mission’s mandate as timely. Angola’s presidential office confirmed that direct discussions between the DRC and M23 would commence on March 18 in Luanda. Despite previous resistance to negotiations, the Congolese government is now reportedly considering the latest Angolan mediation proposal seriously.

The SADC’s withdrawal may adversely affect President Félix Tshisekedi’s efforts to manage the situation with M23. Meanwhile, Rwanda, which is accused of supporting M23, praised the withdrawal as a decision toward achieving peace in eastern DRC. UN experts continue to assert that Rwanda has troops stationed in eastern DRC, despite the nation’s denials of military involvement with the rebels.

The SADC’s phased withdrawal of troops from DRC marks a significant shift amid escalating violence with the M23 rebel group. While peace talks are set to commence under Angola’s mediation, concerns remain regarding the impact of troop withdrawal on the security situation. President Tshisekedi faces mounting pressure over the conflict management, while Rwanda’s alleged support for M23 continues to challenge regional stability.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com