M23 Accuses DRC Government of Undermining Peace Negotiations

M23 has accused the DRC government of undermining peace talks and escalating military actions ahead of negotiations scheduled in Angola. Angolan President Lourenco called for a ceasefire, while Tshisekedi confirmed a delegation would attend the talks. Additionally, Rwanda has severed diplomatic ties with Belgium amid regional tensions.

The armed group M23, which is supported by Rwanda, has accused the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) of attempting to undermine peace negotiations scheduled to take place in Angola. Lawrence Kanyuka, the spokesman for M23 and the Congo River Alliance, alleged that the DRC government has been bombarding populated areas with fighter jets and drones, indicating a deliberate escalation that aims to sabotage impending dialogue.

Following Angola’s invitation for direct talks set for Tuesday in Luanda, Kanyuka acknowledged receipt of this invitation, asserting it as a critical step in addressing the ongoing conflict. Meanwhile, Angolan President Joao Lourenco has called for a ceasefire, effective from midnight Sunday, though responses from the involved parties remain absent.

Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi has so far declined to engage with M23 amidst their recent territorial gains in eastern DRC. However, after Tshisekedi’s recent visit to Luanda, announcements were made regarding the commencement of peace negotiations, which are set to begin on Tuesday. According to a statement from Tshisekedi’s spokeswoman, a DRC delegation will attend the meetings; however, details regarding its composition and the nature of discussions remains unspecified.

In a related development, Rwanda has severed diplomatic ties with Belgium, criticizing the nation for its perceived bias during the ongoing conflict in the DRC. Rwanda’s government accused Belgium of exploiting the situation to foster negative perceptions and destabilize Rwanda and the region as a whole. They have stipulated that all Belgian diplomats must depart the nation within 48 hours, citing national security and dignity as pivotal reasons for this decision.

In summary, the M23 movement has expressed serious allegations against the DRC government regarding attempts to disrupt proposed peace talks in Angola. With significant territorial advances in the east, the escalating tensions complicate the fragile peace process, further exacerbated by Rwanda’s recent action against Belgium. The situation remains fluid as dialogues are slated to commence.

Original Source: www.jordantimes.com