New Delhi: The United Nations peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), MONUSCO, which has played a crucial role in combating rebels for over two decades, disclosed its plan for a complete withdrawal from the Central African nation by the close of 2024. Headed by Bintou Keita, the mission comprises 15,000 personnel and is set to execute a three-phased withdrawal.Phased withdrawal begins in South Kivu provinceThe initial phase of the withdrawal is scheduled to begin in the South Kivu province, where approximately 2,000 security personnel will leave by the end of April. Bintou Keita affirmed this phased approach during a media briefing in the Congolese capital, Kinshasa. The subsequent phases will witness the withdrawal of forces in the North Kivu and Ituri provinces.Definitive departure by end of 2024After 25 years of presence, MONUSCO will definitively leave the DRC no later than the end of 2024, declared Bintou Keita. However, she emphasized that the conclusion of the mission does not signify the end of the United Nations engagement in the country.A collaborative disengagement planUN and Congolese officials collaborated to formulate a disengagement plan, aiming for a progressive, responsible, honourable, and exemplary withdrawal of MONUSCO, stated Congolese Foreign Minister Christophe Lutundula. Modalities have been established for the gradual transfer of tasks from MONUSCO to the Congolese government.History of MONUSCO in CongoMONUSCO succeeded an earlier UN peacekeeping mission in 2010, focusing on protecting civilians and humanitarian personnel while supporting the Congolese government in stabilization and peace consolidation efforts. However, frustrations among Congolese citizens regarding protection from rebel attacks led to protests against the UN mission.Persistent violence, Govts requestEastern Congo has been marred by violence involving over 120 armed groups seeking control of the regions resources. Mass killings and displacement of nearly 7 million people have characterized the conflict. The Congolese government, recently reelected amid disputes, requested MONUSCOs departure, citing limitations in security collaboration amid ongoing conflicts.
