Creating New Problems in AFRICA
7/20/2009 1:28:23 AM -
In the area of International Diplomacy Frustration with a Political Party or Insurgency Movement can lead to unique opportunities.
Sometimes this could lead to new strategic alliances being formed between old adversaries. There also could new changes in aspects regarding how Legislative Bodies determine not only how Dollars are spent in a country but how the President conducts such policy.
Earlier this year Senator Feingold of Wisconsin introduced the LRA Disarmament and Northern Uganda Recovery Act of 2009. This Bill which has widespread Bipartisan support in both Houses of Congress will call upon the Obama Administration to come up with a Comprehensive Strategy to deal with the LRA.
The Main Point of Controversy is the Fact that all options are to be considered. This includes having AFRICOM (African Command) play an increased role in the Apprehension of Joseph Kony the mystical leader of the LRA. In December 2008 AFRICOM Provided Logistical Support for Operation Lightning Thunder an Operation that yielded very little Strategic Benefits.
There is ample debate about whether or not AFRICOM should Actually play a role in this Crisis. Senator Feingold believes that supporting viable and legitimate efforts to disarm and demobilize the LRA is just how the command should be engaged in. However some critics feel that this Law could damage AFRICOM.
Having the Congress Legislate this effort could lead to Mission Creep however well intentioned it may be. Congress could decide to have US Forces intervene in other crisis spots such as Darfur, the DRC and in Somalia at their whim. There is a call for an increased US Role in the Darfur crisis and the US has already sent forces into Somalia twice since 1991.
The Arguments for and against having AFRICOM take an increased role in the LRA Situation which involves four different Countries have merit. This will be a decision that will not be made lightly.
The Author Publishes Confused Eagle on the Internet. It can be found at morganrights.tripod.com
