News article: Reaction to the extension of the EAC mandate in the DRC
The security situation in eastern DRC continues to arouse reactions and questions. Recently, the communicator of Lamuka, one of the opposition platforms, Prince Epenge, expressed his disagreement with the extension of the mandate of the East African Community (EAC) for another three months. In an interview with INFOS.CD, Epenge clearly rejected this decision, saying that the EAC forces “didn’t do the job”.
According to Epenge, it is difficult to understand how President Félix Tshisekedi can both accuse the EAC of being an accomplice of the M23 rebels and allow the extension of its presence in the DRC. For him, there is something hidden behind this decision and it is time to tell the truth to the Congolese. He claims that the EAC military forces, which were supposed to prevent the occupation and fight the M23, failed to fulfill their mission. According to him, the Congolese of North Kivu and Ituri have sufficiently shown that these forces are accomplices of the M23.
This statement by Epenge highlights the differences of opinion on the security situation in eastern DRC and the presence of EAC forces. While the Congolese government continues to ask for the support of the international community to fight against armed groups, some opposition actors question the effectiveness of the forces present on the ground.
It is also interesting to note that this reaction from Epenge comes in a context where the Congolese population is increasingly concerned about the security crisis in the eastern region. Attacks by armed groups, inter-community violence and massive population displacements have a considerable impact on the living conditions of Congolese. In this context, Epenge’s statements raise questions about the government’s ability to keep citizens safe and highlight the need for a more effective response to this crisis.
It is important to emphasize that this article reflects only part of the opinions expressed on the security situation in eastern DRC. Other political actors and members of civil society may have different positions. The objective is to stimulate reflection and debate around this crucial issue for the future of the country.