The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has called for a broader and more inclusive panel of peace facilitators, pushing back against Kenya’s initial list of mediators for the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) peace process. It highlights the need for regional consensus and gender inclusion, with suggestions for alternative facilitators to ensure a balanced approach. This reflects the ongoing geopolitical dynamics where Kenya and SADC have differing views on the mediation framework.
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has requested a more inclusive approach to peace mediation regarding the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), signaling subtle resistance to Kenya’s leading role under President William Ruto. This request effectively counters a previously circulated facilitator list by Kenya, emphasizing the need for greater participation in the peace process.
During a recent joint meeting in Harare, SADC refrained from directly criticizing Kenya’s actions but advocated for an “expanded panel of facilitators.” This reflects discontent with Kenya’s assertive diplomatic efforts in the Nairobi-Luanda process merger, indicating that Nairobi’s unilateral approach may not garner the expected regional support.
President Ruto’s earlier draft list of facilitators included notable figures such as former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta, Nigeria’s Olusegun Obasanjo, and former Ethiopian Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn. However, this list was issued without formal approval from SADC, raising concerns among SADC members about the legitimacy and consensus surrounding it.
Currently, SADC promotes elements of regional balance and gender inclusion, with suggestions for alternative representatives, such as former Ethiopian President Sahle-Work Zewde, as a replacement for Desalegn. This highlights a divided opinion on the current facilitator list, proposing that Nairobi reassess its strategy.
The debate surrounding facilitation roles in DRC mediation exemplifies the complex geopolitical dynamics at play. Kenya aims to strengthen its role in continental diplomacy, while SADC prioritizes consultation and balance. The Harare meeting aimed to unify mediation tracks but inadvertently exposed existing regional rivalries that complicate the pursuit of solutions to African problems.
In conclusion, the Southern African Development Community’s request for broader participation in the DRC peace process underscores its commitment to inclusivity and regional balance. This development illustrates the challenges of unilateral diplomatic initiatives as well as the need for consensus among member states. As Kenya navigates its role in this mediation effort, it is essential for it to consider SADC’s concerns to foster cooperative regional diplomacy.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
