Former planning minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka has been selected as the upcoming prime minister of Congo, entering the position amidst escalating violence in eastern DRC.

Felix Tshisekedi, the President of the Democratic Republic of Congo, has named Judith Suminwa Tuluka as the country's new prime minister. Tuluka, a former planning minister, assumes the position amid escalating violence in the mineral-rich eastern region, adjacent to Rwanda.

The conflict between the Congolese army and M23 rebels has intensified, contributing to a dire security situation. Over 7 million people have been displaced, making it one of the globe's most severe humanitarian crises, as reported by the UN.

Tuluka made her debut televised address on Monday, underscoring the magnitude of the task ahead: "The task is sizable, the challenges immense, but together... we will prevail."

Acknowledging the weight of her responsibility, she expressed her dedication to fostering "peace and development" for the betterment of the Congolese people and their access to the country's resources.

In appointing Tuluka, President Felix Tshisekedi not only honored a campaign pledge but also advanced the process of establishing a new government following his reelection late last year.

Tuluka's appointment follows weeks of uncertainty, yet it will be several months before a new government is formed due to the necessity of deliberations with numerous political parties.

In eastern Congo, far from the capital Kinshasa, over 120 armed groups have long vied for control, exploiting the region's gold and other resources amidst rampant violence and mass killings.

Following accusations of failure to address the conflict, both regional and UN peacekeepers have been requested to leave Congo by the government.

Tuluka has pledged to prioritize peace, development, and fulfilling the president's campaign promises, including improving living conditions for the people.