During an emergency session of the United Nations Security Council this past Sunday, Angola’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Mr. Francisco José da Cruz, delivered a powerful message denouncing the escalating violence in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). His urgent plea for strict adherence to the ceasefire signed on August 4, 2024, and a strengthened mediation effort reverberated through the chambers, highlighting the dire situation facing civilians in the region.
Angola’s Concern for Peace
With a deep sense of concern, Mr. da Cruz expressed his government’s dismay at the recent surge in conflict, particularly the illegal occupation of strategic locations like Sake and Minova by the M23 armed group, blatantly violating the ceasefire agreement. “These actions not only threaten peace in the DRC but also the stability of the entire Great Lakes region,” he emphasized, pointing out the catastrophic humanitarian consequences for civilians, especially in the besieged city of Goma.
Support for the Luanda Process
As the mediator between the DRC and Rwanda on behalf of the African Union, Angola remains steadfast in its commitment to the Luanda process. Mr. da Cruz highlighted the progress made, such as the operationalization of the reinforced ad hoc verification mechanism in November 2024. However, he underscored the persistent disagreements, particularly regarding the M23 issue, which continue to impede a lasting resolution. He urged all parties to uphold their commitments while commending the mediation efforts led by Angolan President João Lourenço.
A Salute to Peacekeeping Forces
In a poignant moment, the Angolan representative paid tribute to the peacekeepers from MONUSCO and the SADC mission (SAMIDRC) who lost their lives in recent clashes, offering condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers and their contributing countries, including South Africa, Malawi, and Uruguay. He praised their valor in protecting civilians amidst the turmoil, acknowledging their sacrifices in the pursuit of peace.
A Global Call to Action
Mr. da Cruz’s impassioned plea extended beyond the walls of the Security Council, urging the international community, and specifically the Council, to ramp up support for the Luanda process and take decisive action to halt hostilities. “The territorial integrity of the DRC must be respected. The Security Council has a duty to safeguard civilians, ensure peace, and prevent a humanitarian catastrophe,” he concluded, echoing the urgent need for collective action in the face of crisis.
As the echoes of his powerful words lingered in the chamber, the call for strict adherence to the ceasefire and strengthened mediation efforts in the DRC resonated as a poignant reminder of the human cost of conflict and the imperative for global solidarity in pursuit of peace.