By Johnathan Paoli
President Cyril Ramaphosa has reaffirmed the continued support for peace efforts to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), amidst the ongoing conflict and increasing calls for South Africa’s withdrawal.
In his weekly newsletter, Ramaphosa reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to finding a peaceful solution to the situation.
“Supporting peace building and the resolution of conflict in Africa has been a cornerstone of our country’s foreign policy since the advent of democracy, as we have sought to draw on our experience of political dialogue and national reconciliation,” he said.
The president said that while he was aware of increasing criticism of South Africa’s troops in the region, it was crucial to remain actively dedicated to finding a peaceful solution.
“The humanitarian, economic and social effects of these conflicts are felt across borders and regions. Instability in any part of the continent affects the prospects for growth and development across the continent,” Ramaphosa said.
He reiterated the need to secure lasting peace, with an immediate end to hostilities and calling for a ceasefire that was respected by all stakeholders in the conflict.
Ramaphosa said the safety of South African soldiers remained a paramount concern to the government, and that while the areas in which they were deployed remained volatile, every effort was being made to ensure sufficient support and resources to the troops.
While maintaining its military presence in the region, the president stressed that diplomacy was the most sustainable pathway to achieving peace for the country and its people.
“We call on all the parties to fully embrace the current diplomatic efforts that are aimed at finding a peaceful resolution, including honouring the Luanda Process,” he said.
Ramaphosa said a duty of support towards the nations of Africa rested upon South Africa, in light of the support the liberation struggle against apartheid enjoyed in the past.
Meanwhile, the Democratic Alliance has written to the Speaker of Parliament, Thoko Didiza, and urged the immediate scaling-down of military parade arrangements for the upcoming State of the Nation Address on Thursday.
DA Defence and Military Veterans spokesperson Chris Hattingh maintained that it was inappropriate for government officials and dignitaries to be entertained by grand military displays in the face of increasing casualties on foreign soil.
“The DA firmly believes that proceeding with a patronising presentation of military capability, while our troops face hardship abroad, is not only tone deaf but also a gross disservice to those who have sacrificed for this country,” Hattingh said.
Almost 800 people have been killed in the North Kivu provincial capital Goma in the DRC’s eastern region within the last week, following its capture by the rebel group M23.
Hundreds of the city’s residents returned over the weekend, following M23’s promise of a restoration of basic services.
However, reports indicated that the rebels were 60km north of the South Kivu provincial capital of Bukavu and advancing, with violence escalating on their journey south.
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