President Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo has appointed Judith Suminwa Tuluka as the country’s first female prime minister, fulfilling a campaign promise and taking a step towards forming a new government after his reelection. The appointment comes at a time of escalating violence in the country’s eastern region, which has displaced over 7 million people. Tuluka has vowed to work towards peace and development, but the formation of a new government will require negotiations with various political parties, potentially delaying the process for months. The conflict in the east involves numerous armed groups, some of which are believed to be backed by Rwanda.
In eastern Congo, a region rich in minerals and plagued by violence, over 120 armed groups seek to control resources like gold, leading to mass killings and displacement. Both regional and U.N. peacekeepers have been asked to leave the country, as the Congolese government accuses them of failing to address the conflict. The withdrawal of personnel has exacerbated the violence, with the prominent rebel group M23 making territorial gains contributing to a surge in violence and displacement. Tshisekedi, reelected for a second term in December, has accused Rwanda of supporting the rebels, a claim that Rwanda denies despite evidence of their forces in Congo.
The United States has urged both Congo and Rwanda to avoid escalating tensions and to step back from the brink of war. The U.S. State Department specifically called on Rwanda to withdraw troops and missile systems from eastern Congo, criticizing the M23 rebel group as being backed by Rwanda. Rwanda, in response, stated that its troops are defending Rwandan territory due to a military build-up by Congo near the border. The situation highlights the complex web of factors contributing to the ongoing violence in eastern Congo, where political, economic, and regional interests intersect.
Tuluka’s appointment as prime minister raises hopes for progress towards peace and stability in Congo, particularly in the conflict-ridden eastern region. Her pledge to prioritize peace and development signals a potential shift in the government’s approach to addressing the longstanding conflict and humanitarian crisis. However, she faces significant challenges in navigating the intricate political landscape and negotiating with various parties to form a new government. The role of women in leadership positions, especially at the highest levels of government, is a significant milestone in Congo’s political history and could bring new perspectives and approaches to governance.
As the situation in eastern Congo continues to deteriorate, it is imperative for regional and international actors to engage in dialogue, mediation, and conflict resolution efforts to address the root causes of the conflict. The presence of multiple armed groups, foreign actors, and resource competition complicate efforts to achieve lasting peace and stability in the region. Tuluka’s leadership will be crucial in building consensus, promoting dialogue, and implementing policies that address the drivers of violence and displacement in eastern Congo. The international community, including the United States and the United Nations, must support these efforts and hold all parties accountable for their actions to prevent further escalation of the conflict.
