Revelations on Uganda’s role in the conflict in the DRC: Perspectives between Kinshasa and Kampala
A recent investigation by United Nations experts has shed light on Uganda’s role in the armed conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), casting a shadow over diplomatic relations between Kinshasa and Kampala. The accusations made in this report have sparked contrasting reactions and fueled debates on the responsibility of regional actors in maintaining instability in eastern DRC.
During a meeting with the Deputy Prime Minister of Foreign Affairs of the DRC, Gracia Yamba Kazadi, the Chargé d’Affaires of Uganda in the DRC, Matata Twaha, vigorously rejected the allegations contained in the report of the experts of the ‘UN. According to him, these accusations could compromise cooperative relations between the two countries, already weakened by misunderstandings and recurring suspicions.
Matata Twaha highlighted Uganda’s commitment to stability in the Great Lakes region, notably through its participation in Operation Chuja. He affirmed that his country had always worked to eliminate armed groups active in the DRC and that it had no interest in supporting the M23 rebel movement. He also highlighted the need for official and detailed communication from the United Nations to adequately respond to the accusations.
However, on the Congolese side, the publication of this report sparked a wave of indignation and demands for a severance of diplomatic relations with Uganda. Some political actors and members of civil society have called for the cancellation of all agreements between the two countries, highlighting the weight of the accusations made by UN experts.
In a context where the Congolese and Ugandan armies are also cooperating in the fight against negative forces in eastern DRC, this revelation calls into question the nature of regional alliances and raises questions about the real desire of regional actors to contribute to peace and stability in the region.
The complexity of the geopolitical issues in this part of Africa highlights the need for transparency and strengthened cooperation between all actors involved to overcome security challenges and promote sustainable development. It is essential that the accusations made are treated seriously and that dialogue mechanisms are put in place to dissipate tensions and promote better understanding between the different countries in the region.
In conclusion, it is essential that the truth comes out and that concrete actions are taken to guarantee peace and stability in the Great Lakes region.. Regional cooperation remains an essential pillar for meeting the security and humanitarian challenges facing the DRC and its neighbors, and it is necessary for all actors involved to demonstrate responsibility and political will to find lasting solutions to these conflicts which have ravaged the region for too long.