News in the DRC: The government of Félix Tshisekedi is tackling the security situation in the east of the country
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) continues to face a security crisis in the eastern part of the country, with more than 250 local armed groups and 15 foreign armed groups spreading terror. To put an end to this worrying situation, President Félix Tshisekedi and his government have undertaken diplomatic actions and negotiations with local armed groups.
As part of the Disarmament, Demobilization, Community Recovery and Stabilization (P-DDRCS) process, the government has called on the military force of the East African Community (EAC) to support its efforts. However, despite this collaboration, the EAC’s strength record was mixed, which aroused discontent in Kinshasa. There is even suspicion of collusion between certain EAC contingents and the armed groups they are supposed to fight.
Faced with this situation, the DRC government has decided to renew its confidence in the EAC force by extending its mandate until next September. Nevertheless, discussions have been initiated to resolve collaboration issues and ensure greater efficiency in the field.
In this perspective, President Félix Tshisekedi participated in an extraordinary summit of the troika of Heads of State of the Southern African Development Community (SADC). The objective of this meeting was to discuss the modalities for the deployment of SADC troops in eastern DRC, in addition to the action of the EAC force.
It is important to emphasize that this future intervention by the SADC is carried out within the framework of the duty of assistance of this organization towards its members confronted with security problems. The DRC has not explicitly asked for help from the SADC, but the latter is expressed in solidarity with a member under attack.
The deployment of SADC troops is considered as an alternative following the difficulties encountered with the EAC force. SADC has already demonstrated its effectiveness in previous interventions in the DRC, raising hopes for greater stability and security in the east of the country.
In conclusion, the government of Félix Tshisekedi is determined to put an end to the worrying security situation in eastern DRC. Despite the problems encountered with the EAC force, discussions have been initiated to improve collaboration and efforts are being made to benefit from the support of SADC