DR Congo PM supports Türkiye’s mediation efforts in Rwanda dispute
Congolese families displaced by ongoing clashes in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo line up as they wait for Rwandan police and immigration officials to allow them to return to the country, following the takeover of the Congolese city of Bukavu by M23 movement, at the Rusizi 1 border post in Cyangugu on Feb. 17, 2025 (AFP Photo)
Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) Prime Minister Judith Tuluka Suminwa has expressed support for Türkiye’s potential mediation in resolving tensions with Rwanda, following President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s offer to facilitate peace negotiations.
Türkiye’s role in mediation
Speaking during the 58th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva, Suminwa welcomed all diplomatic efforts to achieve stability in the region.
“If President Erdogan intends to make this mediation offer today, then why not?” she said, emphasizing her government’s willingness to engage in dialogue.
Suminwa acknowledged the complex security situation in eastern DRC, where clashes between Congolese forces and the March 23 Movement (M23) rebels have intensified since the beginning of the year.
Regional security concerns
The prime minister underlined the broader risks posed by M23 and affiliated armed groups, warning that their activities threaten not only the DRC but also neighboring countries.
“M23 and associated armed groups do not only pose a risk at our borders—they also present a threat to the stability of neighboring countries,” she stated.
Suminwa stressed the urgency of addressing the situation to prevent further destabilization in the Great Lakes region.
Calls for cease-fire, sanctions
The DRC government has been engaged in discussions with international stakeholders, including the United Nations, the United States, the United Kingdom, and the European Commission, on implementing measures to halt hostilities.
The proposed steps include:
- An immediate cease-fire,
- The withdrawal of Rwandan forces,
- The establishment of humanitarian corridors,
- Ensuring security in areas affected by M23’s occupation.
The DRC is also advocating for potential sanctions as a means to pressure the involved parties into compliance.
Ongoing clashes, humanitarian impact
Conflict in eastern DRC has displaced over 500,000 people since January, with nearly 3,000 reported deaths in recent clashes over Goma’s control, according to the United Nations.
M23 rebels, predominantly composed of Tutsi fighters, have seized several towns and villages, escalating tensions between the DRC and Rwanda.
The Congolese government accuses Rwanda of supporting M23, an allegation Kigali denies.
International response
Türkiye has reiterated its readiness to support peace efforts in the Great Lakes region, emphasizing its commitment to mediation if both parties agree.
Suminwa expressed optimism about diplomatic solutions, saying: “As we have stated, we are in favor of peace, and every mediation initiative is important.”
As diplomatic efforts continue, regional and international actors remain engaged in seeking a resolution to the ongoing crisis.
