Dr. Mbuyiseni Ndlozi, a prominent leader of South Africa’s Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), has called on President Cyril Ramaphosa and Rwandan President Paul Kagame to abandon inflammatory rhetoric and focus on diplomatic solutions to ease escalating tensions in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). His appeal comes amid growing fears of armed conflict in the region, particularly in eastern DRC, where violence has surged in recent months.
In a statement released by the EFF on Tuesday, Ndlozi urged the two leaders to “stop the war talk” and immediately engage in dialogue to de-escalate the crisis. He stressed that military interventions would only deepen the humanitarian catastrophe and further destabilize the already fragile region.
“President Ramaphosa and President Kagame must recognize the weight of their words,” Ndlozi said. “As influential leaders on the African continent, South Africa and Rwanda have a responsibility to lead by example. Diplomacy, cooperation, and peace must take precedence over actions that could escalate tensions.”
The call for diplomacy comes as both South Africa and Rwanda have been drawn into discussions surrounding the conflict in eastern DRC. Rwanda has repeatedly denied allegations of supporting rebel groups in the region, while the DRC government has criticized foreign interference in its internal affairs. The escalating situation has raised concerns about the potential for a broader regional conflict if diplomatic efforts fail.
Ndlozi’s remarks echo the growing concerns of the African Union and other international organizations, which have consistently advocated for peaceful resolutions to the DRC crisis. The EFF, known for its strong stance on African-led solutions to continental issues, has emphasized the importance of multilateralism and unity among African nations in addressing such challenges.
While the South African government has maintained a cautious diplomatic stance, balancing its relationships with both Rwanda and the DRC, Ndlozi’s statement reflects mounting pressure from the EFF for a more proactive role in promoting peace. The party has long championed non-interventionist policies and peaceful negotiations as the preferred approach to resolving conflicts in Africa.
As tensions in the DRC continue to rise, the international community is closely monitoring the situation, with hopes that Ramaphosa and Kagame will prioritize diplomacy and regional stability over further escalation. The EFF’s call for peace underscores the urgent need for African leaders to work together in addressing one of the continent’s most pressing crises.
