Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced that it is “strongly disassociating” itself from a Congolese opposition figure who has formed an alliance with rebels in Nairobi. This move has led to a diplomatic dispute with Kinshasa, prompting the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to recall its ambassador to Kenya in protest.
The controversial alliance, known as the Congo River Alliance, was launched in Nairobi and includes figures such as former DRC election commission chief Corneille Nangaa and the M23 rebels, who have seized territory in eastern DRC. In response, the DRC has recalled its ambassadors to both Kenya and Tanzania for consultations.
Kenya’s foreign minister, Musalia Mudavadi, released a statement, expressing the country’s disassociation from any activities or statements that could threaten the peace and security of the DRC. He also announced that an investigation would be conducted to identify the individuals involved in the alliance and determine if their actions constitute a violation of the constitution.
The formation of the Congo River Alliance has raised concerns in the region, where longstanding insecurity and ethnic rivalries have fueled conflict. The alliance comes at a critical time, as the DRC is preparing for presidential elections on December 20. Moreover, the resurgence of the M23 rebels, who have displaced millions of Congolese people, has added to the security tensions leading up to the elections.
Nangaa and the alliance have faced criticism from the DRC government and international observers. The government spokesman accused Nangaa of launching “subversive activities,” while the head of the UN’s peacekeeping mission in the DRC expressed extreme concern about the newly formed alliance.
The development of this alliance, which aims to fill the void left by the weak state in the DRC, has heightened tensions in an already volatile region. As the DRC prepares for crucial elections, the situation remains precarious, and the actions of the Congo River Alliance continue to fuel diplomatic, security, and humanitarian concerns.
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