Museveni, AU Commission Chairperson Discuss Conflicts in DR Congo and Sudan

In a meeting with Mr. Moussa Faki Mahamat, the Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission, at State House Entebbe on Monday, July 24th, 2023, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni shared his belief that the insecurity in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo and Sudan can be resolved through the rejection of sectarian politics and the adoption of politics based on the common interests of the people.

Reflecting on Uganda’s historical struggle for independence, President Museveni pointed out that the crisis in the country arose from political parties rooted in tribal and religious affiliations, which failed to unite the nation. He emphasized that this approach was abandoned in the mid-1960s when a student movement arose, advocating for a politics focused on the people’s interests rather than divisive factors. This shift ultimately led to the creation of a national force that successfully overcame challenges, including defeating Idi Amin and establishing stability.

Mr. Moussa, as the Chairperson of the AU Commission, sought President Museveni’s insights on finding lasting solutions to instability in Africa, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Sudan, where recent conflicts have erupted. President Museveni attributed the problems in the DR Congo to historical interference by Western imperialists, who undermined the nation’s legitimacy and sovereignty after the election of Patrice Lumumba, resulting in ongoing instability and the absence of a unified national political party and army.

Regarding the M23 rebels, President Museveni considered it a political issue that could be resolved through dialogue, as the rebels’ demands were not insurmountable. He encouraged President Tshisekedi of the DRC to engage in discussions with the M23 rebels to find common ground and end the conflict. Furthermore, President Museveni emphasized the importance of empowering displaced populations to defend their villages, thereby reducing the number of refugees.

Regarding Sudan’s challenges, President Museveni identified the core issue as being rooted in politics of identity. To address the situation, he advised three key steps: cessation of hostilities, planning for elections, and offering amnesty to those willing to work towards peace.

Mr. Moussa expressed gratitude for President Museveni’s counsel and guidance during his tenure as the Chairperson of the AU Commission for the past six years.

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