M23 Rebels to Participate in Peace Talks with Congo Government in Angola

M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, will attend peace negotiations in Angola with the Congolese government, which has reversed its prior refusal to negotiate. The talks aim for a ceasefire amid escalating tensions and a humanitarian crisis resulting from ongoing conflict.

The M23 rebel group, reportedly backed by Rwanda, announced on Monday its decision to send a five-member delegation to peace negotiations scheduled to begin in Luanda, Angola. Lawrence Kanyuka, a spokesperson for the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) which includes M23, indicated that the delegation would depart for the Angolan capital at the request of local authorities.

In a significant shift, the Congolese government, led by President Felix Tshisekedi, stated it would also participate in the talks, reversing an earlier position of refusing to negotiate with the rebels. These discussions aim to establish a sustainable ceasefire and mitigate tensions between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda, as reports suggest Rwanda has supported the M23 with arms and troops.

In response, Rwanda maintains its military actions are defensive, aimed at addressing threats from the Congolese army and various militias perceived as hostile. The ongoing conflict in eastern Congo, stemming from the repercussions of Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and disputes over the country’s mineral wealth, has intensified recently, with M23 capturing territories previously unattained, including significant urban areas.

Since the beginning of this year, the Congolese government reports that over 7,000 individuals have lost their lives due to the conflict, while the United Nations humanitarian office estimates that approximately 600,000 people have been displaced since November.

The M23 rebels are set to engage in peace talks in Angola, marking a potential turning point in the ongoing conflict with the Democratic Republic of Congo. With both parties sending delegations, the discussions aim to mediate a ceasefire and address longstanding tensions exacerbated by external influences, particularly from Rwanda. The humanitarian crisis continues to escalate, underscoring the urgent need for resolution and support for affected populations.

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