The DRC crisis deepens

The nonsensical expeditions by Rwandan-backed DRC rebels into eastern DRC are quite deplorable.Is it 1998 again? This time the younger Kabila must be careful in how he handles the situation because not everyone who is putting a pretty face in wanting to stop this senseless aggression is to be trusted at all. The mineral rich DRC has been in the eyes of imperial forces for a very long time and they are bent on using stealthy methods to get a foothold on these minerals.

Why is it difficult to outrightly condemn Rwanda at the outset because it is seemingly obvious that it is behind the M23 rebels. Several rebels groupings have out6cropped over the past years and all have the same agenda and signatures. Therefore it is actually the same forces but they are being given a different cosmetic outlook every time in an effort to create a situation which is unnecessary at all. It is peculiar to note that the upsurge in violence in the DRC is happening at the same time when the US deployed it's special operations forces in the eastern and central Africa in order to assist local security forces in hunting down the infamous Joseph Kone. We are told these special ops guys are just in a non-combative and advisory role.

There are also reports that these4 M23 rebels have got advanced weapons such as night vision equipment etc. We don't expect that from a rebel force operating on it's own means unless it's supported by organized security forces.Right now the rebels are making bold claims that they are making advances to Kinshasa in an effort of toppling President Kabila. Maybe Rwanda and Uganda have forgotten how the Zimbabwe National Army's (ZNA) Commando Regiment destroyed some of their best officers when Kinsasha was about to fall in 1998. This time it can happen again if these rebels continue on their stupid adventure.

It is important that the Southern African community stand by it's sister, the DRC and take a central role in assisting President Kabila to restore order. I doubt if the UN Security Council can be of any help considering that the US and allies and also Rwanda are on the Security Council. There is no time left in taking action therefore the onus is on President Kabila to deal with the matter as a matter of urgency.