By McGeorge Mbare
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has decided to withdraw its SAMIDRC troops from the Democratic Republic of Congo as part of its resolutions adopted during the heads of state summit, which was chaired by SADC chairperson and President of Zimbabwe, ED Mnangagwa yesterday.
SADC Chairperson Mnangagwa highlightted that they are engaging on a phased withdrawal of the SAMIDRC troops in DR Congo.
“On the basis of well-considered factors and reflections on the initial mandate, this Extraordinary SADC Summit has made the bold decision to withdraw our Mission from the eastern DRC. The withdrawal of SAMIDRC notwithstanding, our august regional body will remain seized with the political and security situation in eastern,” SADC Chairperson Mnangagwa stated on his speech.
In line with the SADC Mutual Defence Pact of 2003, SADC emphasized its dedication to addressing the ongoing conflict and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting interventions aimed at bringing lasting peace and security to the eastern DR Congo.
The SADC summit also reiterated the need for a political and diplomatic solution with all parties including state, non state parties, military and non military in the eastern DR Congo for security and peace restoration.
The SADC leaders at the summit reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to continue supporting DRC in pursuit for its sovereignty and territorial integrity.