The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has expressed the need for a broader panel of peace facilitators in the DRC mediation process, responding to perceived unilateral actions by Kenya and highlighting the importance of regional balance and inclusivity in diplomatic efforts.
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has expressed a preference for a more extensive and inclusive panel of peace facilitators regarding the ongoing mediation efforts in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This position indicates a pushback against an earlier facilitator list presented by Kenyan President William Ruto, highlighting a subtle resistance to Kenya’s ambitions in the peace process.
During a recent joint ministerial meeting held in Harare, SADC refrained from explicitly naming individuals or directly criticizing Kenya’s unilateral moves while advocating for a broader panel of facilitators. This stance emphasizes SADC’s discomfort with Kenya’s aggressive diplomatic maneuvering and perceived dominance in integrating the Nairobi-Luanda mediation initiatives.
Earlier this year, President Ruto had prematurely released a draft list of facilitators that included prominent figures such as former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta and Nigeria’s Olusegun Obasanjo. This document, however, lacked official SADC endorsement, causing concern within the Southern bloc regarding its legitimacy and consensus.
SADC has now called for considerations of regional balance and gender representation in the peace facilitation process. There is also a proposal from Kinshasa to include former Ethiopian President Sahle-Work Zewde as an alternative to Hailemariam Desalegn, who is perceived by some as too closely aligned with Kigali. This suggests that the current list of facilitators is contentious and that Kenya may need to adjust its strategy.
This ongoing facilitator debate sheds light on broader geopolitical tensions in the region. While Kenya seeks to solidify its role in continental diplomacy, SADC emphasizes the need for processes that prioritize consultation and balance among member nations. The recent meeting in Harare, which aimed to unify mediation efforts, has inadvertently highlighted how regional rivalries can obstruct the overarching goal of finding African-led solutions to African challenges.
In summary, SADC’s recent push for a more inclusive panel of facilitators highlights tensions between Kenya’s diplomatic ambitions and the need for regional consensus. The discussion around the facilitator list not only illustrates the complexities of mediation efforts in the DRC but also emphasizes the importance of balance and consultation among regional powers. As Kenya navigates this diplomatic landscape, adjustments to its approach may be necessary to foster collaboration and achieve effective peace outcomes.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
