POLITICO-STRATEGIC APPROACH OF CONGOLESE GOVERNMENT ACTION FOR THE STRENGTHENING OF SOVEREIGNTY IN THE FACE OF THE AGGRESSION OF THE DRC: VALUE, MEANING AND CRITICISM OF THE CREATION OF THE ARMY AND DEFENSE RESERVE

Authors: Kalokola Yangonde Julien, Ngoyi Tshibuabua Greddy, Bidie Dimbu Hermite, Olomwene Omo Lucide & Mavita Tseki Errol

ABSTRACT

This reflection analyzes the government initiative to create the Army and Defense Reserve (RAD), adopted by Law No. 23/014 of May 22, 2023. This structure aims to mobilize the Congolese population, in particular through the so-called “Wazalendo” self-defense groups, to support the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) in the face of persistent insecurity in the east of the country. Without falling into sentimentality or populism, this article examines the patriotic value, the strategic sense and the critical limits of this approach. In a context of external aggression (notably via the Rwandan-backed M23) and state fragility, the RAD appears to be a national mobilization effort to strengthen sovereignty. It is part of a logic of renewal of patriotism and sacred union around the defense of the territory. However, its success will depend on the ability to professionally supervise these forces, to avoid excesses (uncontrolled integration of armed groups, tensions with the FARDC, ambitions of local leaders) and to prevent it from becoming an additional source of instability.

Keywords: Government action, sovereignty, aggression, Wazalendo, patriotism.

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