SADC condemns attack on peacekeepers in DRC
DR CONGO: THE Southern African Development Community (SADC) has strongly condemned the recent attack on its peacekeeping forces in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) by the M23 rebel group.
The attack which occurred last week in Goma, Eastern DRC, targeted the Southern African Development Community Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC).
In a statement released yesterday, the SADC Secretariat described the assault as a blatant act of aggression undermining the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the DRC, as well as the peace and stability of the SADC region.
The M23 rebel group’s actions, including territorial expansion, were highlighted as exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in Eastern DRC.
According to SADC, the ongoing conflict has resulted in thousands of deaths and displaced millions, particularly women, children, the elderly and persons with disabilities in North Kivu Province.
Despite the attack, SAMIDRC forces successfully repelled the assault and SADC praised the bravery and sacrifice of its peacekeepers who risked their lives in defence of the region.
The organisation extended condolences to the families of the fallen peacekeepers and wished a speedy recovery to those injured in the confrontation.
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SADC criticised M23’s actions as a violation of the Nairobi Peace Process and the ceasefire brokered under the Luanda Process.
The ceasefire agreement, spearheaded by Angolan President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço in his capacity as the African Union Champion for Peace and Reconciliation, seeks to stabilise Eastern DRC.
The regional body called on M23 and all parties to the conflict to honour their commitments, cease hostilities immediately and withdraw from all occupied territories.
It emphasised dialogue as the primary means of achieving sustainable peace and security in the DRC and the broader region.
SADC reaffirmed its unwavering support for the DRC in safeguarding its independence and territorial integrity.
It stated that the SAMIDRC peacekeeping mission would continue addressing the deteriorating security and humanitarian conditions in Eastern DRC.
The organisation appealed to the international community, including the United Nations, to denounce M23’s actions and support efforts to restore peace in the region.
