SADC denies claims of joint military operations with Congo forces

IANS April 15, 2025 150 views

The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has strongly denied allegations by the M23 movement about joint military operations in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. The regional bloc emphasized its commitment to peaceful diplomatic solutions and is currently implementing a structured withdrawal of its regional force, SAMIDRC. Eastern DRC has long been plagued by complex armed conflicts involving multiple groups competing for control of mineral-rich territories. SADC continues to urge all parties to act responsibly and work towards de-escalating tensions in the region.

"SADC firmly refutes these allegations. These assertions are both inaccurate and misleading." - SADC Official Statement
Gaborone, April 15: The Southern African Development Community (SADC) dismissed claims that its regional force deployed in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is conducting joint military operations with Congolese troops.

Key Points

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- SADC rejects M23 claims of joint military operations in eastern DRC

In a statement issued Monday by its headquarters in Gaborone, Botswana's capital, the 16-member bloc rejected allegations made by the March 23 Movement (M23) in a communique dated April 12, calling them "inaccurate and misleading."

"SADC firmly refutes these allegations. These assertions are both inaccurate and misleading," the bloc said, adding that the SADC Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC) has not participated in any joint operations as claimed.

SADC noted that SAMIDRC is currently implementing a structured and coordinated withdrawal from the DRC in line with directives from the SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government. The bloc had announced the end of the deployment in March, Xinhua news agency reported.

SADC also reaffirmed its commitment to the outcomes of a consultative meeting held on March 28, 2025, in Goma, eastern DRC, between SADC representatives and M23 leadership.

The statement said that SADC remains dedicated to supporting peaceful and diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving lasting stability in eastern DRC.

All parties have been urged by the SADC secretariat to act responsibly, refrain from the spread of misinformation, and work collectively to de-escalate tensions and restore peace in the region.

Eastern DRC has endured decades of conflict, with armed groups including M23 vying for control of the mineral-rich region. The violence has displaced millions and deepened an ongoing humanitarian crisis.

SAMIDRC, which includes troops from Malawi, South Africa, and Tanzania, was deployed in December 2023 as part of regional efforts to support peace processes and bolster security in collaboration with Congolese authorities.

Reader Comments

T
Thabo M.
This clarification was much needed! Too much misinformation floating around about SADC operations. We need to trust the process and let diplomacy work. đź‘Ź
L
Lerato K.
I hope this withdrawal is handled carefully. The last thing eastern DRC needs is a security vacuum. SADC should ensure a proper transition plan is in place.
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James P.
Respectfully, I think SADC could be more transparent about their operations timeline. The public deserves clearer communication about peacekeeping efforts.
A
Amina B.
The humanitarian crisis in DRC breaks my heart đź’”. Whatever the politics, we must remember the millions suffering because of this endless conflict.
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Sipho D.
M23 making accusations again? Color me surprised. They've been part of the problem for years. SADC is right to call out their misinformation.
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Nomsa T.
I appreciate that SADC is sticking to diplomatic solutions. Military interventions rarely bring lasting peace. The region needs dialogue and development.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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Tags:
SADC M23 Rebels Democratic Republic of Congo Regional Conflict Military Withdrawal Peacekeeping
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