ANC welcomes Motlanthe's appointment to DRC peace panel

This development follows the decision by the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to end its peacekeeping mission in the conflict-ridden eastern DRC. 

The decision came after a critical SADC heads of state meeting during which the mandate of peacekeeping forces, including troops from South Africa, Malawi, and Tanzania, was officially terminated.

These forces had been stationed in the region since December 2023, working to alleviate the effects of ongoing conflict, particularly with the M23 rebel group linked to Rwanda.

SADC leaders, including South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa, have ordered a phased withdrawal of the forces, raising concerns over the security situation in the region following their departure.

Fourteen South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers were killed in clashes with M23 rebels in the country at the beginning of the year.

READ MORE: Ramaphosa reaffirms diplomatic, political stability of DRC

Motlanthe will join former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo and former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta, highlighting Africa’s commitment to finding African-led solutions to its challenges.

The ANC has praised the efforts of SADC and the East African Community (EAC) for advancing a comprehensive peace strategy that includes immediate, medium, and long-term measures to bring lasting peace to the DRC.

“We further acknowledge the leadership of President Cyril Ramaphosa, who represented South Africa in the critical discussions led by SADC Chairperson, President Emmerson Mnangagwa, and his EAC counterpart, President William Ruto,” says ANC spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri.

The ANC has called for all parties involved in the conflict to engage in good faith and commit to a sustainable ceasefire and a negotiated settlement that prioritizes peace, stability, and the well-being of the Congolese people.

“We remain deeply concerned about the ongoing violence, particularly the actions of armed groups undermining the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the DRC. The ANC urges the international community to support regional peace initiatives and hold accountable those who fuel instability for their own interests.”

The ANC added that this intervention aligns with its vision of a Better Africa, Better World, where conflicts are resolved through dialogue and mutual respect.

“The ANC will continue to support diplomatic and political efforts aimed at securing peace and stability across the continent, ensuring that the aspirations of the people of the DRC and Africa for peace, security, and prosperity are achieved.”

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