DRC / Election campaign in Goma: Félix Tshisekedi promises to «rid the country of the M23 rebels»
Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) President Félix Tshisekedi, seeking re-election, intensified his campaign in Goma, a critical city under the influence of the M23 rebels, less than two weeks before the presidential election. Addressing a rally in the North Kivu region, Tshisekedi pledged to secure votes and continue the fight against the M23 rebels, whom he accused of being led by Rwandan leader Paul Kagame.
Facing a crowd undeterred by heavy rain, President Tshisekedi emphasized his commitment to ending decades of terror imposed by the rebels and stressed the necessity of building a strong national army.
He called for unity in the armed forces and urged young, patriotic individuals to join the efforts of rebuilding the military.
Tshisekedi declared, “We are going to put an end to their barbaric reign and to the terrorism that has plunged the Congolese people into mourning for decades.”
Economic and security concerns dominate Tshisekedi’s campaign, with accusations against Rwanda for supporting the M23 rebels.
UN experts have established links between the rebels and Rwandan forces, a claim rejected by Kigali.
The M23 rebellion has caused widespread displacement, exacerbating humanitarian challenges.
Tshisekedi emphasizes the need to protect the country from Rwandan aggression and ensure peace and stability for the next five years.
President Tshisekedi faces around twenty opponents in the upcoming election. The complexity of challenges, including security issues and accusations against neighboring countries, underscores the delicate nature of the electoral process and Tshisekedi’s vision for the Democratic Republic of Congo.
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Jean-Robert Tchandy
