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Sadc extends DRC mission

by Staff reporter
21 Nov 2024 at 06:19hrs | Views
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) Extraordinary Summit concluded last night in Harare, commending peaceful elections in Botswana, Mauritius, and Mozambique while expressing grave concerns over post-election violence in Mozambique and continued instability in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Peaceful Elections Celebrated

The Summit extended congratulations to Botswana's newly elected President Duma Gideon Boko and Mauritius' Prime Minister Dr. Navin Ramgoolam for peaceful and orderly elections on October 30 and November 10, respectively.

It also acknowledged the efforts of Mozambique's President Filipe Nyusi, despite challenges, for overseeing elections. However, the Summit condemned the post-election violence in Maputo, offering condolences to the people of Mozambique for lives lost during the unrest.
DRC Instability Dominates Agenda

The deteriorating security and humanitarian situation in eastern DRC was a focal point of discussions. SADC leaders extended the mandate of the SADC Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC) by one year to continue addressing the region's instability.

In a show of solidarity, the Summit reiterated the principles of the SADC Mutual Defence Pact, emphasizing collective regional security. The communiqué praised SAMIDRC personnel for their dedication to restoring stability and acknowledged DRC President Félix Tshisekedi's gratitude for SADC's unwavering support.

Angolan President João Lourenço was lauded for his leadership under the Luanda Process in mediating peace between DRC and Rwanda. However, the Summit condemned persistent ceasefire violations and urged all parties to adhere to their commitments for lasting peace.
Mozambique Post-Election Violence

President Nyusi provided an update on the political and security crisis in Mozambique, with the Summit reaffirming SADC's commitment to supporting the nation through the Organ on Politics, Defence, and Security Cooperation.

The bloc condemned the violence that erupted after Mozambique's elections and called for concerted efforts to ensure stability.
SADC Chairperson's Gratitude

President Emmerson Mnangagwa, SADC Chairperson, thanked Heads of State and representatives for their commitment to fostering regional cooperation. He reaffirmed SADC's dedication to consolidating peace, security, and stability across the region.
Notable Attendees

Key attendees included Presidents Mnangagwa (Zimbabwe), Boko (Botswana), Tshisekedi (DRC), Rajoelina (Madagascar), and Nyusi (Mozambique). Other nations were represented by deputy presidents, ministers, and senior officials, demonstrating a united front towards addressing regional challenges.
Call for Action

The Summit concluded with a call for enhanced regional cooperation and coordinated efforts to address the challenges in Mozambique and the DRC. SADC leaders underscored their commitment to lasting peace and stability as a foundation for regional growth and development.

Source - The Herald