The recent statements by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot regarding the withdrawal of Rwandan troops from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have drawn a clear response from former Deputy Prime Minister and current National Deputy Leonard She Okitundu, alongside his political party, the Social Democratic Green Party (PSDV).
In a declaration issued on June 7, 2026, She Okitundu and the PSDV view these international positions as a significant step toward a lasting solution to the security crisis in eastern DRC. They believe the growing global attention to North Kivu and South Kivu reflects a recognition of the severe security and humanitarian challenges facing Congolese communities. The party considers this diplomatic mobilization as a potential catalyst for restoring peace in a region plagued by armed violence and mass displacement.
However, while they strongly commend Secretary Rubio for setting a deadline for the effective withdrawal of Rwandan forces from Congolese territory—seeing it as a firm U.S. commitment to DRC’s sovereignty and regional stability—they sharply criticize Minister Prévot’s stance. Prévot called for a simultaneous withdrawal of Rwandan troops and the neutralization of the FDLR (Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda). She Okitundu and the PSDV argue this approach risks providing a pretext for delaying Rwanda’s obligations.
They emphasize that United Nations Security Council Resolution 2773 demands an immediate and unconditional withdrawal of Rwandan troops from Congolese soil. This resolution, they insist, remains the primary legal and diplomatic framework for de-escalating tensions in eastern DRC.
Given the persistent insecurity in conflict-affected areas, the PSDV and its leader call on national and international stakeholders to maintain diplomatic pressure to ensure compliance with international commitments and foster a return to peace. They reaffirm their dedication to defending the DRC’s territorial integrity and advocate for a solution grounded in international law, regional cooperation, and respect for UN resolutions.
