M23 Rebels to Participate in Angola Peace Talks with DRC Government

The M23 rebels will attend peace talks with the DRC government in Angola, reversing the government’s previous refusal to negotiate. This dialogue attempts to address growing tensions with Rwanda amid ongoing violence in eastern Congo, which has resulted in thousands of deaths and significant displacement.

The M23 rebel group, which is supported by Rwanda, announced on Monday its intention to participate in forthcoming peace talks with the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This dialogue, requested by Angolan authorities, is set to commence on Tuesday in Luanda, with a five-member delegation departing for the meeting that same day. Lawrence Kanyuka, spokesperson for the rebel alliance AFC, made this announcement via a post on X.

On Sunday, the office of President Felix Tshisekedi conveyed that Kinshasa would send its own representatives to the discussions in Luanda. This marks a significant shift from the DRC government’s previous stance of refusing to entertain negotiations with M23. Angola has actively sought to mediate a durable ceasefire and mitigate tensions between the DRC and Rwanda, amidst claims from the United Nations regarding Rwanda’s military involvement in the conflict.

Rwanda defends its military presence, asserting it is acting in self-defense against the Congolese army and local militias that pose threats to its security. The ongoing conflict, significantly rooted in the aftermath of Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and the competition for Congo’s rich mineral wealth, has plagued eastern Congo for decades. This year, the situation has markedly intensified, with M23 seizing control of territories it had not previously held, including major cities and several smaller areas.

According to the DRC government, over 7,000 individuals have lost their lives in the ongoing violence since January. Additionally, the United Nations humanitarian affairs office reports that at least 600,000 people have been displaced by the conflict since November, reflecting the severe consequences of the hostilities.

In summary, the M23 rebel group is set to engage in peace talks with the DRC government in Angola, marking a notable shift in diplomatic relations. This dialogue aims to address ongoing tensions exacerbated by military involvement from Rwanda. The conflict has claimed many lives and displaced hundreds of thousands, highlighting the urgent need for a lasting resolution to the violence in eastern Congo.

Original Source: www.thestar.com.my