Extension of Regional Force to Address Violence in Congo

The Minister of Defense of Congo, and spokesperson for a regional force formed to combat violence from armed groups in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, Jean-Pierre Bemba, announced an extension of the force's operation until September. The seven countries in the Eastern Africa Group established a military force in April of last year in an attempt to end the bloodshed associated with militant activities in eastern Congo that have persisted for decades. The future of the force was uncertain since its mandate ended in March, and the leadership of the Eastern Africa Group expressed differing views on how to proceed. Doubts about its effectiveness increased last April after the force's commander, Major General Jeff Niyungeko, announced his resignation due to obstacles and threats to his safety.