In the current context of persistent tensions in the Great Lakes region of Africa, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has recently taken decisive measures to address the critical situation. In a striking letter addressed to the UN Security Council, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the DRC, Thérèse Kayikwamba, called for concrete actions to counter the RDF-M23 coalition and implement sanctions targeting those responsible for these destabilizing acts.
This letter, dated December 17, 2024, reveals the DRC’s firm determination to protect its citizens and promote peace in the region. Thérèse Kayikwamba highlights the harmful actions of the RDF-M23 coalition, supported by Rwanda, which have resulted in flagrant violations of international and humanitarian law. The repeated attacks on peacekeepers and the mass displacement of civilian populations can no longer be tolerated.
Rwanda’s inflexible position, which makes the resolution of the crisis conditional on direct negotiations with the M23 rebellion, is strongly criticized by the DRC. This approach compromises the progress made in the Luanda process, jeopardizing the ceasefire established last August and the disengagement agreements of the Rwandan armed forces.
Faced with this escalation of tensions, the DRC calls for targeted sanctions against the leaders of the RDF-M23 coalition and a strengthening of the MONUSCO mandate. It is urgent to protect vulnerable civilians and closely monitor dangerous cross-border activities. Thérèse Kayikwamba’s letter sounds like a cry of alarm, stressing the need for rapid and effective international action to prevent a new humanitarian catastrophe in the region.
By denouncing the failure of the Luanda tripartite summit, the DRC highlights Rwanda’s lack of cooperation, thus jeopardizing hopes for peace and stability. The time for speeches and procrastination is over, and it is through concrete and united measures that the international community will be able to provide an adequate response to this crisis.
In conclusion, Thérèse Kayikwamba’s letter is a call for action and solidarity to put an end to the violence and suffering of the populations in the Great Lakes region. The DRC affirms its determination to defend peace and security, and it is imperative that all stakeholders mobilize for a peaceful resolution of this devastating conflict.