Nairobi, Kenya - In a move reflecting deepening diplomatic tensions, Kenya Airways announced the suspension of its flights to Kinshasa, effective April 30, 2024. The decision follows unresolved issues related to the detention of two airline employees by military authorities in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This development coincides with escalating regional tensions, notably due to the formation of a controversial Congolese military alliance in Nairobi, which includes the M23 rebel group.

The airline's employees were detained on April 19 for allegedly failing to complete customs documentation for valuable cargo. Despite a military court's order for their release, they remain in custody, complicating the situation further.

The crisis unfolds against a backdrop of increased friction between Kenya and the DRC, following recent political maneuvers. On Friday, Congolese politicians and groups, including the M23 rebels, launched the Congo River Alliance in Nairobi. The alliance aims to unify various Congolese armed groups and political organizations. The inclusion of the M23 rebels, who are active in the eastern DRC and have been implicated in territorial conflicts, has particularly strained relations.

This move prompted the DRC to recall its ambassador from Kenya on Saturday, underscoring the severity of the diplomatic rift. The DRC's foreign ministry spokesperson, Alain Tshibanda, announced the recall on the X social media platform, highlighting the contentious nature of the newly formed military alliance hosted by Kenya.

Kenya Airways, in its statement, cited the ongoing detention and the broader geopolitical tensions as key factors in its decision to suspend flights. "The safety and well-being of our employees are paramount, and the current diplomatic environment has made it challenging to operate effectively in Kinshasa," said a spokesperson for Kenya Airways.

As the situation develops, regional stakeholders are keenly observing the impact on diplomatic and economic relations within the East African Community. Kenya Airways has committed to closely monitoring the situation and resuming flights when conditions permit.