On March 13, SADC leaders decided to terminate their peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) after the recent killings of peacekeepers by M23 rebels. The SAMIDRC mission, which took over responsibilities from the EAC and the United Nations, was unable to secure peace in the conflict-ridden region. The withdrawal follows a series of deadly incidents involving peacekeepers, leading to public outcry. Experts suggest a potential need for a reevaluation of peacekeeper engagement rules in light of increasing violence from armed groups.
The SAMIDRC fatalities dominated news headlines in southern Africa, sparking broad public opposition. Malawi was particularly vocal about the loss of soldiers in the conflict.
Chimwemwe Tsitsi, a Malawi-based international relations expert, suggested, ‘Perhaps there is a need to rethink the rules of engagement with regard to the peacekeepers.’
SADC leaders announced a 'phased withdrawal' from the DRC, highlighting the increasing dangers faced by peacekeepers, particularly from intensified rebel attacks.
The bloc's decision to end its mission in the DRC was influenced by the recent fatalities, which raised concerns over the effectiveness and safety of peacekeeping forces.
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