South Africa is currently focused on the repatriation of the 14 soldiers who lost their lives in the conflict-ridden eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) during the siege of Goma by M23 rebels, with backing from Rwanda.
Major General Godfrey Thulare, the general officer commanding the joint operations division headquarters of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), stated that the top priority is bringing back the bodies of the deceased soldiers and the injured ones, including those from Malawi and Tanzania. Plans have been put in place for the repatriation process, involving the United Nations and the Southern African Development Community.
The rebels in the DRC announced a ceasefire on Monday, following a week of intense fighting that resulted in numerous casualties. The South African soldiers were part of the regional peacekeeping force known as the Southern African Development Community Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (SAMIDRC).
President Cyril Ramaphosa defended the presence of South African soldiers in the DRC, emphasizing that it was not an act of war against any country but a mission to restore peace and protect the lives of those threatened by the conflict in the region.
Despite the president’s explanation, there has been criticism both domestically and internationally regarding South Africa’s involvement. Legislators questioned the role of the soldiers in the DRC, with concerns raised about their engagement with the enemy instead of fulfilling a peacekeeping mandate.
Major General Thulare informed parliament about the intense offensive launched by M23 rebels on South African troops in the town of Sake in North Kivu province. The SANDF fought bravely to defend their positions, but unfortunately, some soldiers lost their lives during the conflict.
Currently, there is a truce in place between SAMIDRC and the M23 rebels, with no active hostilities. SANDF troops remain stationed in Sake, ensuring that the ceasefire agreement is respected by all parties involved.
The situation in the DRC remains volatile, and South Africa’s continued presence in the region raises questions about the nature of their mission and the risks faced by their soldiers. The repatriation of the fallen soldiers is a somber reminder of the sacrifices made in the pursuit of peace and stability in conflict-affected areas.
