Title: President Félix Tshisekedi pleads for a gradual withdrawal of MONUSCO and addresses the DRC’s challenges at the UN
Introduction :
President Félix Tshisekedi recently spoke at the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly. During his speech, he addressed several key topics concerning the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Among the salient points, President Tshisekedi pleaded for a gradual withdrawal of the UN Stabilization Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO) and highlighted the challenges of insecurity in the east of the country and the importance of the upcoming elections. In this article, we will analyze these positions and their implications for the future of the DRC.
Gradual withdrawal of MONUSCO:
One of the central subjects addressed by President Tshisekedi was the withdrawal of MONUSCO. He stressed the need to accelerate this process in order to ease tensions between the UN mission and the Congolese population. The President argued that peacekeeping missions deployed in the DRC over the past 25 years have failed to confront the rebellions and armed conflicts tearing the country apart. He therefore felt that it was time for the DRC to take full control of its destiny and become the main actor in its own stability.
Insecurity in the east of the country:
Another major challenge mentioned by President Tshisekedi was the persistent insecurity in eastern DRC. He deplored the fact that despite the efforts made, rebel groups continue to sow violence and massacre civilian populations. The President also expressed concern about the M23, a rebel group active in the region, and stressed that dialogue will never be granted to those who refuse to respect the agreements reached for peace. He called for concrete actions to protect civilians and punish the perpetrators of serious crimes committed on Congolese territory.
The next elections:
Finally, President Tshisekedi confirmed the holding of general elections in December. He assured that measures were being taken to ensure the transparency, inclusiveness and credibility of the electoral process. Invitations were extended to international institutions and non-governmental organizations to mandate their electoral observation missions. The President stressed the importance of guaranteeing free and fair elections in order to consolidate democracy in the DRC.
Conclusion :
President Félix Tshisekedi’s speech at the UN General Assembly reflects the challenges facing the DRC. By pleading for a gradual withdrawal of MONUSCO, the President underlines the country’s desire to take charge of its own stability. He also emphasizes the urgency of fighting persistent insecurity in the east of the country, in particular by sanctioning the rebel groups responsible for the violence. Finally, President Tshisekedi reaffirms the importance of the next elections to strengthen democracy in the DRC. These positions highlight the challenges but also the country’s aspirations to achieve peace, security and good governance.