Uhuru Kenyatta Warns of Escalating Conflict in Eastern DRC After EACRF Withdrawal
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has expressed deep concern over the worsening instability in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) following the withdrawal of the East African Community Regional Force (EACRF).
He stated that the withdrawal disrupted ongoing peace negotiations and directly contributed to the renewed fighting in eastern DRC.
Uhuru explained that by June 2023, as preparations were underway for the crucial 4th Intra-Congolese Dialogue Conference, political focus in the DRC had shifted toward the country’s national elections set for December 2023.
This shift slowed down the progress of the Nairobi Peace Process. At the same time, political disagreements led to the withdrawal of Kenyan forces from the regional peacekeeping mission.
“The suspension of the regional force weakened the momentum of peace efforts. It caused delays in negotiations, led to a breakdown in military coordination, and ultimately resulted in a resurgence of violence.
Despite various efforts to keep the peace talks alive, including discussions between myself, DRC President Félix Tshisekedi, and leaders of the M23 rebel group, the political and security situation in the country continued to deteriorate,” Uhuru stated.
He further pointed out that the M23 rebel group, which had previously agreed to a ceasefire, has now taken control of key areas, including the strategic city of Goma, as clashes have intensified.
Despite the setbacks, the former president remains optimistic about the Nairobi Peace Process, describing it as a vital platform for dialogue and conflict resolution in eastern DRC.
He stressed the importance of combining the Nairobi and Luanda peace initiatives to address the crisis effectively.
“I strongly believe that the Nairobi and Luanda peace processes hold the best chance for ending the conflict in eastern DRC.
These two frameworks complement each other and should be pursued together. Resolving this crisis requires close coordination between Rwanda and the DRC, alongside structured peace talks that address the internal challenges affecting the people and political landscape in eastern Congo,” Uhuru said.
He reaffirmed his belief in an African-led solution, emphasizing that lasting peace can only be achieved if Rwanda and the DRC return to the negotiation table while ensuring that local issues within eastern Congo are managed carefully to promote peace and reconciliation.
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