By Michael Mbewe

The protest, led by Oliver Kalinga, called for an end to what they say is Rwanda's collaboration with the M23 rebel group to destabilise the eastern region of the DRC.

Kalinga addressed the crowd, stating that the objective of the protest was to make it clear to Western countries, through the EU, that the Congolese people would no longer tolerate Rwanda's interference in their country. He expressed their determination to prevent Rwanda from further dividing the DRC and affirmed that the Congolese people would stand united in defending their sovereignty.

The protestors also expressed gratitude towards the SA government, military, and citizens for their ongoing support and solidarity with the people of the DRC, particularly in efforts aimed at restoring peace in the region. Kalinga emphasised the importance of peace and rejected discussions surrounding the DRC’s ongoing conflict, urging that Rwanda should be excluded from any negotiations regarding the country's future.

One protester condemned the EU for reportedly supplying arms to Rwanda, which he claimed were being used to kill SA soldiers sent to the DRC on a peace mission. He called for an immediate halt to the arms supply and for the EU to stop enabling Rwanda’s actions.

Tina Ambu Lukumbo, also a protester, spoke out passionately about the personal toll the conflict has taken on her family. Lukumbo says she lost a family member in Kivu and called for sanctions to be imposed on Rwanda for its role in the violence.

In a surprising turn, the M23 rebel group announced a ceasefire. However, political analysts dismissed the move, questioning its legitimacy.

Didier Bayeye, the DRC's economic and political analyst, argued that the ceasefire was insufficient and called for the complete withdrawal of M23 forces from the DRC.

--ChannelAfrica--