NEW: SADC Mission on DRC withdrawn

Zvamaida Murwira

Senior Reporter

The Sadc Extraordinary Summit held virtually this morning resolved to withdraw regional troops that had been deployed to help end hostilities in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, while the bloc remain seized with the political and security situation in the country.

The Summit’s Communique that announced the withdrawal of the troops was read out by Sadc Executive Secretary, Mr Elias Magosi, at the end of the Extraordinary Summit.

In his closing remarks, Sadc chairperson President Mnangagwa said while they are withdrawing troops, they will continue monitoring the security situation in DRC.

“Based on well considered factors and reflections in the initial mandate, this Extraordinary Sadc Summit has made the bold decision to withdraw our mission from eastern DRC.

“Our august regional body will remain seized with the political and security situation in eastern DRC,” said President Mnangagwa.

The Summit, chaired by President Mnangagwa, was convened to reflect on the security situation in DRC where there are hostilities between government forces and the M23 group.