Tshisekedi Sends Envoy to Chad Amid Rising Tensions in DR Congo

DR Congo’s President Tshisekedi has sent an envoy to Chadian President Deby amid reports of a military assistance request. The situation highlights ongoing tensions in eastern DRC, compounded by Deby’s public support and opposition concerns in Chad regarding troop deployment. As regional leaders emphasize dialogue, Tshisekedi rejects talks with M23 rebels, linking its actions to Rwanda’s influence.

President Félix Tshisekedi of DR Congo has sent a special envoy to Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Deby, following recent reports indicating that DRC may be requesting military assistance. The Chadian presidency has not disclosed the content of the message delivered by Didier Mazenga, the Minister in charge of African Cooperation. This comes amidst ongoing conflict in eastern DRC, with Deby expressing solidarity on social media, stating Chad supports DRC, its government, and President Tshisekedi in their struggles.

Last week, the opposition party in Chad, Front pour l’Alternance et la Concorde au Tchad (FACT), released a statement condemning the government’s preparation to send troops to DR Congo. Meanwhile, N’Djamena has remained silent regarding Kinshasa’s reported military support request to combat M23 rebels. Relations between Chad and DRC have historically been strong, with President Deby previously honoring Tshisekedi for his role in reconciliation efforts within Chad.

Chad and DR Congo are both part of the Central African Economic Community (CEEAC). Notably, Chad deployed troops during the First Congo War in support of Laurent-Désiré Kabila against M23-backed rebels from Rwanda and Uganda. While Mazenga was in N’Djamena, President Tshisekedi was engaged in discussions in Luanda with Angolan President João Lourenço, focusing on the evolving situation and strategies following the recent African Union summit.

President Lourenço, who often mediates DRC issues, emphasized the need for dialogue involving all parties, including the M23 group. Tshisekedi has resisted negotiating with M23, labeling it a terrorist organization and blaming Rwanda for its backing. In a recent African Union meeting, UN Secretary-General António Guterres urged for respect for DR Congo’s sovereignty, warning that military solutions are not viable and stressing the need to avoid broader regional conflict.

President Tshisekedi’s envoy visit to Chad underscores the escalating military tensions in DR Congo, particularly the request for assistance against M23 rebels. The solidarity expressed by Deby reflects historical ties between the two nations, although opposition within Chad questions military intervention. Meanwhile, calls for dialogue and peace negotiation remain prominent, as leaders seek resolutions to prevent further regional instability.

Original Source: www.bbc.com