FILE PHOTO: AUBIN MUKONI / AFP
The Democratic Alliance and Economic Freedom Fighters have welcomed the Southern African Development Community’s decision to withdraw troops from the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The decision was announced on Thursday after an extraordinary summit of the heads of state and governments of SADC to deliberate on the security situation in the DRC.
The DA says the decision of the SADC is a necessary step after months of suffering endured by South African soldiers.
The party has long advocated for the withdrawal of troops, following the intense battles between January 23-25, after which soldiers were left surrounded by the M23 rebels with no logistical support for 48 days.
DA's Chris Hattingh has called on the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Angie Motshekga, to ensure that significant amounts of combat equipment, which could fall into the hands of M23 rebels, are not left behind.
"The withdrawal must be executed carefully, ensuring that no sensitive equipment is left exposed to our adversaries. M23 has already demonstrated their dominance in the region, showcasing its power not only to the people of South Africa but to the entire world.
"The SADC’s acknowledgement of this reality and the subsequent decision to end the mission is a necessary step, but it raises urgent questions about the effectiveness of the mission itself."
In a statement, the EFF urged the government to ensure the safe passage back home of soldiers and to prioritise their reintegration after the mission.
"The resources that were allocated to this ill-fated mission, including the R5 billion earmarked for South Africa’s involvement in SAMIDRC, must be redirected towards strengthening our own defence capabilities, ensuring we are adequately equipped should another opportunity for peacekeeping occur.
"The EFF remains committed to our position that South Africa should only participate in peacekeeping missions where there is a clear strategic objective, proper logistical planning, and adequate resources to support our soldiers."
The party has called on the SADC, EAC and the African Union to intensify diplomatic efforts and hold all parties accountable, ensuring that the people of the DRC can finally see an end to this decades-long conflict.
"The withdrawal of SAMIDRC troops must mark the beginning of a renewed commitment to sustainable peace, not another cycle of conflict and instability."
