African leaders have declared the withdrawal of troops from South Africa, Tanzania, and Malawi from eastern Congo due to rising public opposition following the deaths of peacekeepers. This decision was made during a virtual meeting of the Southern African Development Community, coinciding with planned peace talks in Angola between the Congolese government and M23 rebels.
In a significant development, African leaders have collectively declared the withdrawal of their troops from eastern Congo, comprising forces from South Africa, Tanzania, and Malawi. This decision comes in light of ongoing violence in the region, which has witnessed M23 rebel attacks resulting in the deaths of international peacekeepers. Specifically, since the beginning of 2023, fourteen South African and three Malawian personnel have lost their lives to these insurgents.
The withdrawal of troops from South Africa, Tanzania, and Malawi highlights the increasing public discontent regarding the military presence in eastern Congo following substantial losses among peacekeepers. As the Southern African Development Community reassesses its involvement, prospective peace talks facilitated by Angola may pave the way for a resolution between the Congolese government and the M23 rebels. The region continues to seek stability amidst internal and external pressures.
Original Source: www.voiceofalexandria.com
