M23 Rebel Leader Makenga Supports Peace Talks with Congolese Government

General Sultani Makenga of the M23 rebel group welcomes peace talks with the Congolese government, which are set for March 18 in Angola. He criticizes President Tshisekedi and emphasizes their fight against discrimination and injustice in Eastern Congo. The negotiations indicate a potentially transformative phase, whereas ceasefire violations by the Congolese army raise ongoing concerns.

General Sultani Makenga, the head of the M23 rebel group, has expressed his support for the impending peace negotiations with the Congolese government, scheduled for March 18 in Luanda, Angola. This statement was made during an interview on March 12 with Alain Destexhe, a former Belgian senator. Makenga noted, “Of course, we want to negotiate, but at this stage we have only learned of Angola’s position, but we have not yet heard anything from Kinshasa.”

The announcement of these direct negotiations comes after Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi’s visit to Angolan President João Lourenço, marking a significant shift in the political standoff. Previously, President Tshisekedi had been resistant to direct talks with the rebels. Notably, Makenga criticized the President, stating, “he [Tshisekedi] has no love for his country, he is a bandit.”

In contrast to previous negotiations that excluded rebel representation, the Angolan presidency confirmed that delegations from both the Kinshasa government and the rebel faction will engage directly. Makenga emphasized that the M23 is committed to combating injustice towards Congolese Rwandophones and aims to eliminate various forms of discrimination, tribalism, and corruption prevalent in the region.

The M23 has been involved in a conflict with a coalition of Congolese government forces, various foreign militaries, and UN peacekeepers since 2021. Their struggle seeks to address longstanding grievances against various societal injustices. Recently, Makenga stated, “We are fighting for our survival. It must be understood that we took up arms because we were threatened with extermination.”

Notably, M23 forces took control of Goma and Bukavu earlier this year, leading to a reported restoration of order. Makenga asserted that their advance to these major cities was not originally intended, but necessitated by the threat posed by Congolese military actions. He remarked, “From Goma, the FARDC and other forces were pounding our positions. We could no longer tolerate this.”

Despite some improvements in security, Makenga raised concerns about ongoing military assaults, stating that the Congolese army continues using drones to target them, which violates existing ceasefire agreements.

The unfolding dialogues represent a pivotal moment, potentially paving the way for lasting peace, contingent on adherence to negotiation outcomes and a reduction in hostilities.

In summary, General Sultani Makenga’s endorsement of the Angola-mediated peace talks marks a critical juncture for the M23 and Congolese government. Throughout the dialogue, the primary focus remains the M23’s resolve against socio-political injustices, while the success of these negotiations hinges on both parties’ commitment to cease hostilities and foster reconciliation. The situation continues to demand careful monitoring as both sides strive for a sustainable resolution to the ongoing conflict.

Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw