Title: Strengthening the Congolese armed forces: A priority for President Tshisekedi
Introduction: Since his re-election as President of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Félix Tshisekedi has been committed to strengthening the Congolese armed forces. In a worrying security context, particularly in the east of the country, President Tshisekedi expressed his desire to provide the armed forces with ammunition, equipment and substantial means to meet security challenges throughout the national territory. This article explores the measures taken by President Tshisekedi and the expected impact on the security of the Congolese population.
A firm commitment to the armed forces: President Tshisekedi stressed the importance of strengthening the Congolese armed forces from the start of his second term. He affirmed that the military will gain strength thanks to the implementation of the military programming law and the acquisition of additional resources. President Tshisekedi notably initiated a program to build military barracks and indexed the military’s pay scale to the guaranteed interprofessional minimum wage (SMIG). In addition, he put in place laws aimed at strengthening the armed defense reserve.
A response to security challenges: The Democratic Republic of Congo is facing major security challenges, particularly in the eastern part of the country where the M23-RDF coalition is active. Faced with this threat, President Tshisekedi assured that the Congolese armed forces will be adequately equipped to ensure the defense of the integrity of the national territory. This measure aims to strengthen the security of the Congolese populations and put an end to the armed clashes which are ravaging certain regions of the country.
The first President to invest in the army: The Minister of Defense, Jean-Pierre Bemba, underlined that Félix Tshisekedi is the first Head of State to deploy significant resources for the training and equipment of the army Congolese. This approach demonstrates President Tshisekedi’s commitment to the security and defense of his country. The strengthening of the armed forces is also a manifestation of its desire to ensure the stability and development of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Conclusion: Strengthening the Congolese armed forces is a priority for President Tshisekedi. Faced with major security challenges, the Democratic Republic of Congo needs a strong and well-equipped army to ensure the security of its population and the defense of its territory. The measures taken by President Tshisekedi, such as the implementation of the military programming law and the acquisition of additional resources, aim to strengthen the operational capacities of the Congolese armed forces. This investment in the army marks President Tshisekedi’s commitment to the security and development of his country.