Ruto Holds Virtual Meeting With Uhuru, 3 Other Ex-African Presidents
Kenyan President William Ruto has urged the Nairobi-Luanda peace team, including former President Uhuru Kenyatta, to help East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC) peace envoys engage Rwanda in efforts to restore peace in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
During a virtual summit on the merged Luanda-Nairobi peace process, Ruto emphasized the importance of including Rwanda in discussions. Rwanda has previously been reluctant to engage due to tensions with the DRC.
Ruto’s Commitment to Regional Peace
President Ruto assured leaders that he would collaborate with Uhuru’s team and other regional officials to ensure Rwanda’s involvement.
“We need to find a way forward, especially since the facilitator for Rwanda is not part of this process. This issue must be addressed,” Ruto said.
Escalating Conflict in DRC
Ruto called on peace facilitators to continue engaging with all parties involved in the conflict. The M23 rebels have been advancing within the DRC, worsening the situation.
The President also highlighted how humanitarian efforts have been disrupted by rebel activities. He revealed that over 3,000 people have died, and many others have been injured due to ongoing violence.
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“These numbers are not just statistics; they represent human suffering that needs urgent action,” Ruto added.
Key Mediators in the Peace Process
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta is one of the facilitators appointed by EAC and SADC to mediate the DRC conflict. Other mediators include:
- Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo
- Former Ethiopian President Sahle-Work Zewde
- Former Central African Republic President Catherine Samba-Panza
Challenges Facing the Peace Process
The Nairobi peace talks, led by Uhuru, faced obstacles due to political distractions, military withdrawals, and lack of commitment from key players.
Additionally, Kenya’s withdrawal of troops from the EAC Regional Force weakened security efforts, creating a power vacuum that emboldened insurgent groups.
Conclusion
President Ruto’s call for Rwanda’s involvement could be a crucial step in finding a lasting solution to the DRC conflict. As the region continues to seek peace, collaboration among leaders will be essential in stopping the violence and restoring stability.
Ruto Holds Virtual Meeting With Uhuru, 3 Other Ex-African Presidents
