The DR Congo’s military, the FARDC, currently struggles against the M23 rebel group, which has captured key cities despite the FARDC’s larger size. Significant issues contributing to this struggle include systemic corruption, inadequate training and resources, and the influence of external forces, particularly Rwanda. President Tshisekedi has increased military funding, but these challenges remain entrenched, complicating the prospects for effective military reform and stability in the region.
Since January, the M23 rebel movement has captured Goma and Bukavu, crucial cities within the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), establishing governance over the regions they occupy. The Congolese armed forces (FARDC) thrived with approximately 135,000 soldiers as of 2022, though this number is believed to have increased subsequently. In contrast, the UN estimates M23’s forces at just a few thousand, bolstered by around 4,000 soldiers from Rwanda.
The Congolese President, Felix Tshisekedi, responded to the situation by more than doubling military expenditures to $794 million (€732 million). However, questions arise regarding the FARDC’s inability to withstand M23’s advances. “One of the main factors explaining the weakness of the FARDC lies in systemic corruption,” stated Alain De Neve, a researcher at the Royal Higher Institute for Defence (RHID) in Brussels. He noted that numerous reports have indicated the misappropriation of funds meant for soldiers’ salaries and military logistics, directly impacting troop morale and leading to rampant desertions.
Ciaran Wrons-Passmann of the German Ecumenical Network for Central Africa characterized the FARDC as operating akin to a “self-service shop,” primarily serving leaders’ interests for personal enrichment. Furthermore, FARDC commanders have exaggerated their troop numbers, resulting in increased funding from Kinshasa, which is then allocated inefficiently, according to Jakob Kerstan, head of the Konrad Adenauer Foundation in Kinshasa.
Reuters reports that the FARDC has struggled with entrenched issues such as inadequate pay and training, which hinder effective reform. Although improved pay was announced, it remains significantly less than what Eastern European mercenaries receive. The lack of coordination, even relying on platforms like WhatsApp for communication, complicates mission execution and impedes effective command from Kinshasa.
Alain De Neve pointed out that widespread nepotism results in incompetent military commanders being favored for their loyalty rather than their effectiveness. The DRC’s military continues to face challenges in recruiting capable officers, leading to a high turnover in leadership positions that further complicates military reform efforts. De Neve underscored that the national army assimilated former warlords, creating overlapping loyalty networks and complicating command structures.
Historically, under the regime of Mobutu Sese Seko, the army was never allowed to amass sufficient strength due to fears of potential coups. This mentality persisted under his successors, resulting in Rwandan infiltration into the army ranks. “The army was never there to take over national defense,” said Wrons-Passmann, emphasizing the prioritization of the presidential guard throughout history.
President Tshisekedi noted betrayal within the army and criticized the lack of military reconstruction during his predecessor’s lengthy tenure. The influence of the Rwandan military remains a significant challenge for the FARDC, according to De Neve. Rwanda’s military organization and support substantially complicate efforts to defeat M23. Amidst ongoing reform initiatives, Patrick Muyaya acknowledged the challenge, stating that comprehensive reforms will not be achieved overnight.
In summary, the Democratic Republic of Congo’s armed forces face considerable challenges in effectively countering the M23 rebel movement. Key issues include systemic corruption, lack of resources and training, nepotism, and historical military division exacerbated by external influences, particularly from Rwanda. President Tshisekedi’s attempts to reform the army are hindered by these deep-seated problems, threatening national stability and security. Consequently, addressing these complexities is essential for strengthening the DRC’s military capabilities and overcoming the ongoing challenges posed by armed groups.
Original Source: www.dw.com
