Congo M23 Rebels Set to Participate in Peace Talks in Angola

M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, will join peace talks in Angola with the DRC government, which has shifted its stance. The discussions aim to establish a ceasefire and reduce tensions, following a conflict linked to Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and control over Congo’s mineral wealth.

The M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, announced their participation in peace talks scheduled to commence in Luanda, Angola, following an invitation from Angolan authorities. A five-member delegation is expected to depart on Monday, as confirmed by Lawrence Kanyuka, the spokesperson for the AFC rebel alliance, which includes the M23.

In a significant shift, the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo, led by President Felix Tshisekedi, will also send representatives to the peace talks, ending its previous refusal to engage with the rebel group. Angola has been undertaking efforts to mediate a durable ceasefire and reduce tensions between Congo and Rwanda, which is accused by the UN of supplying arms and supporting the M23 rebels.

Rwanda contends that its military actions are a form of self-defense against threats posed by the Congolese army and various local militias. This conflict, rooted in the aftermath of Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and competition for Congo’s rich mineral resources, has persisted for decades. This year, the situation escalated, with M23 seizing control of regions they had not previously held, including the two largest cities in eastern Congo.

The Congolese government has reported that over 7,000 individuals have perished due to the violence since January, and the United Nations has highlighted that approximately 600,000 people have been displaced since November.

In summary, the participation of the M23 rebels and the Congolese government in peace talks in Angola marks a critical step toward addressing the ongoing conflict in eastern Congo. The initiative comes amid a backdrop of extensive violence, driven by historical grievances and struggles for resources, with thousands having lost their lives and many displaced. The success of these dialogues could potentially pave the way for stability in the region.

Original Source: www.usnews.com