Malawian troops are being ordered to withdraw from the Democratic Republic of Congo, a move seen as a step towards peaceful negotiations amidst ongoing fighting. The decision comes after at least 20 peacekeepers were killed in clashes with M23 rebels last week.
The Malawian troops are part of the southern African regional bloc’s military mission (SAMIDRC) deployed to DR Congo to help tackle armed groups.
The Malawian Defence Force (MDF) has its roots in the colonial era, established in 1891 as a 'police force.'
After gaining independence in 1964, the MDF was formalized into a national army.
The MDF is composed of three branches: the Army, Air Force, and Marine Unit.
Malawian troops have participated in peacekeeping missions in neighboring countries, including 'Mozambique' and 'Democratic Republic of Congo.'
The MDF has also been involved in counter-terrorism efforts along the border with 'Tanzania.'
At least 20 peacekeepers, including 14 ‘South Africans’ and three ‘Malawians’ , were killed as the M23 rebels captured the key city of Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, last week. President Chakwera said his decision was meant to ‘honour the declaration of a ceasefire by the parties’ , even though the fighting is continuing.
The M23 rebel group emerged in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in 2012.
It was formed by former members of the Congolese National Army (FARDC) who were dissatisfied with the government's handling of the region.
The group's name is derived from the March 23, 2009 mutiny that led to its formation.
M23 rebels have been accused of committing human rights abuses and war crimes during their conflict with the DRC government.
Withdrawal of Troops: A Step Towards Peaceful Negotiations
In a statement read on state TV on Wednesday evening, he said the withdrawal of troops would ‘pave the way for their planned negotiations towards a lasting peace’. Malawi Information Minister Moses Kunkuyu told the BBC Newsday programme that the planned withdrawal was being ‘made in good faith’.
Background and Context
The SAMIDRC mission was authorised by the southern African bloc (Sadc) to have 5,000 troops from South Africa, Malawi, and Tanzania. The mission was initially deployed in 2023 and was last year extended until December this year.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has faced similar pressure to withdraw his forces, but he has vowed to keep his troops in DR Congo, saying they are subject to the SAMIDRC mission ‘which has operational timeframes and an end date’ .
