afrol News, 14 February - The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo has taken steps to get rid of foreign rebel militia in the country. This was evidenced by a presidential order, authorising the formation of a pilot committee for the purpose.

Coordinated by Congo's Foreign Affairs Minister, Antipas Mbusa Nyamwisi, the committee is expected to get backing from the UN peacekeeping mission [MONUC] in the country to monitor and coordinate disarmament, demobilisation and repatriation activities of foreign fighters to their respective countries.

The militias awaiting to be repatriated includes Interahamwe, a Rwandan Hutu militia accused of participating in the country's 100-

day long genocide which saw the mass slaughter of Tutsis and moderate Hutus. An estimated 800,000 people were slaughtered in the genocide fuelled by the gunning down of Rwanda's former Hutu President in April 1994.

Over the years, Rwandan militias had been accused of fanning insecurity in eastern Congo. An estimated 6,000 Rwandan rebels are based in Congo.

In November 2007, governments of Congo and Rwanda signed an agreement on the disarmament and repatriation of Rwanda rebels most of who are reeling with fears of retaliation upon return to their country.

Last month, about 20 rebel groups, including those of General Laurent Nkunda signed peace accord with the government. However, fighting has reportedly resumed between the Mayi-Mayi and Njunda's CNDP groups in North and South Kivu.

By staff writer

© afrol News

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