South African President Cyril Ramaphosa reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) despite rising demands to withdraw troops following the deaths of 14 South African soldiers.
The soldiers, part of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) peacekeeping force deployed in 2023, were caught in escalating clashes with Rwanda-backed M23 rebels. These insurgents recently seized Goma and have vowed to advance toward Kinshasa, heightening regional instability in the mineral-rich eastern DRC.
Ramaphosa emphasized the need for global cooperation to restore lasting peace. “South Africa remains steadfast in supporting the people of the DRC,” he stated.
Rwandan government spokesperson Yolande Makolo accused Ramaphosa of prioritizing mining interests over soldier safety. "Tell your people the truth about the personal interests you have in DRC’s mining sector," she posted on X (formerly Twitter).
A UN report previously alleged that Rwanda has troops in the DRC, profiting from rare minerals and exerting control over M23. However, Rwanda denies backing the rebels, instead accusing the DRC of sheltering the FDLR, a Hutu militant group linked to the 1994 genocide.
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Following the soldier casualties, Ramaphosa met with Rwandan President Paul Kagame to discuss a ceasefire, though Kagame later accused him of misrepresenting their discussion.
In South Africa, opposition parties like the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and the Democratic Alliance (DA) demand an immediate withdrawal, citing inadequate military resources.
Ramaphosa reassured that the SADC mission has a defined timeline and will conclude as peace measures take effect. Meanwhile, regional leaders continue discussing a resolution, with SADC and the East African Community strategizing on the security crisis.
