Why the Congolese Military Struggles Against the M23 Militia

The conflict in eastern Congo underscores significant weaknesses in the Congolese military, characterized by corruption and inadequate resources. President Félix Tshisekedi’s efforts to strengthen the army have faltered against the M23 militia, which has received backing from Rwanda. The situation has left Tshisekedi isolated, with dwindling domestic support and dependent on external assistance to address the ongoing crisis.

The recent conflict in eastern Congo has laid bare persistent deficiencies within the Congolese military, which is notorious for corruption, extortion, and abuse. The armed forces are not only underpaid and inadequately equipped but are also plagued by internal factions pursuing their individual agendas. Successive administrations have intentionally kept the military weak for fear of potential coups, rendering it ineffective against the M23 militia, which has successfully captured two prominent cities, two significant airports, and vast territories in the region.

President Félix Tshisekedi had attempted to bolster the military in anticipation of escalating tensions but has found these efforts to be insufficient against the M23’s advance. As a result, he faces increasing isolation, a decline in domestic support, stalled peace negotiations with neighboring powers, and a lack of robust international backing. The M23 militia has the support of Rwanda, a smaller neighboring country, which has allegedly provided training and resources to the rebels. Rwanda has acknowledged the presence of its troops in Congo while denying any direct influence over the M23’s operations.

Fred Bauma, the executive director of Ebuteli, remarked, “This conflict has two sides: one is Rwandan support to the M23, and the other is internal weaknesses of the Congolese government.” In a recent interview, President Tshisekedi noted that one of the army’s challenges is the infiltration by foreign elements, attributing this issue to the failures of his predecessor.

Overall, the Congolese army’s persistent weaknesses, combined with external interventions, continue to undermine the stability and security of the Democratic Republic of Congo in the face of militia attacks.

In conclusion, the Democratic Republic of Congo’s military struggles against the M23 militia highlight deep-rooted issues of corruption, inadequate funding, and factionalism within the armed forces. The support from Rwanda for the militia complicates the situation further. As President Tshisekedi grapples with these challenges, his administration’s capacity to regain control and address internal weaknesses remains precarious, necessitating both domestic and international support.

Original Source: www.nytimes.com