The president of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Felix Tshisekedi, will miss the upcoming virtual summit of the East African Community (EAC), which is aimed at addressing the ongoing crisis in his country. A presidential spokesperson confirmed on Wednesday that Tshisekedi’s absence is due to scheduling conflicts.
The summit, convened by Kenyan President William Ruto, will focus on the escalating security situation in eastern Congo, particularly in the city of Goma, where heavy fighting between the Congolese army and the M23 rebel group has led to widespread displacement and diplomatic tensions.
Although Tshisekedi will not attend, other regional leaders, including Rwandan President Paul Kagame, who is accused by Congo of supporting the rebels, are expected to participate. At least 42 people, including 17 foreign peacekeepers, have been killed in the recent violence.
