The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has officially commenced the withdrawal of United Nations peacekeepers, marking the end of a 25-year presence in the conflict-ridden country. Foreign Minister Christophe Lutundula announced the start of the process on Saturday, with a complete pullout anticipated by December 31st, 2024.
Despite ongoing concerns expressed by the United Nations regarding violence in eastern DRC, Kinshasa pushed for the withdrawal of the MONUSCO mission, established in 1999. Citing the force’s perceived ineffectiveness in protecting civilians from armed groups and militias, the DRC government, similar to other African nations like Mali, had voiced its desire for an accelerated departure.
Lutundula, alongside MONUSCO chief Bintou Keita, assured a “model” withdrawal during a joint press conference held in the capital. The 13,500 soldiers and 2,000 police currently deployed across three eastern provinces will be phased out in three stages, with regular assessments dictating the pace.
The initial phase, set to be completed by April’s end, involves the departure of peacekeepers from South Kivu. Lutundula clarified that while plans are in motion, “seeing soldiers board planes” wouldn’t occur immediately. Nonetheless, Keita confirmed the closure and handover of the first of 14 UN bases in South Kivu by February 15th, starting with the Kaman yola base bordering Burundi.
While a precise final date for complete withdrawal remains undetermined, Lutundula expressed ambition for the process to conclude by year’s end. He emphasized that this pullout, prompted by accusations of Rwandan support for the M23 rebel group in North Kivu, “does not signal the end of the war.”
Keita highlighted the critical situation within the DRC, noting the “nearly seven million displaced people, including 5.5 million in the east,” all requiring protection. He appealed to all armed groups to lay down their arms and facilitate the return of displaced citizens.
The commencement of the UN peacekeepers’ withdrawal from the DRC marks a significant turning point for the nation. While security concerns persist, the government’s determination to take full responsibility for its internal security presents both challenges and potential for a new chapter in the country’s long and complex struggle for peace.
