Title: EAC force mandate renewed despite criticism
Introduction :
The mandate of the East African Community (EAC) force has been renewed for a period of three months in the province of North Kivu, despite criticism from Congolese authorities and civil society. During the EAC summit in Nairobi, this extension was justified by the operational progress made by the force. This article examines in more detail the situation and issues surrounding this decision.
Development :
For several years, the North Kivu province in the Democratic Republic of Congo has been the scene of violence perpetrated by M23 rebels. Faced with this situation, the EAC force was deployed in the region to try to restore peace. However, many voices are being raised to criticize the ineffectiveness of this force in putting an end to the rebels’ activism.
During the press conference in Kinshasa, Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi expressed his dissatisfaction with the laxity of certain contingents of the regional force, which allow the M23 to collect taxes in the areas they occupy. This statement was made in the presence of Burundian President Evariste Ndaishimiye.
Despite these criticisms, the mandate of the EAC force was renewed at the summit in Nairobi. According to the official press release, this decision is justified by the operational progress made by the force. However, it remains to be seen whether this progress will actually be effective in ending the violence and restoring security to the region.
Conclusion :
The extension of the mandate of the EAC force in North Kivu province has sparked controversy and criticism. As Congolese authorities and civil society question the effectiveness of this force, the EAC summit decided to renew its mandate based on the operational progress made. It is essential to closely monitor developments in the situation in North Kivu and assess the real impact of the presence of this force on the ground.