DRC and Rwanda Presidents Urge Immediate Ceasefire Amid Escalating Conflict

DRC President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame have called for an immediate ceasefire in eastern DRC during discussions in Qatar. The meeting is significant as it is their first since the escalation of conflict involving the M23 rebels. Both leaders emphasized the necessity for continued dialogue to establish a sustainable peace despite previous negotiations failing. The future of the ceasefire remains uncertain as M23 rebels have not committed to it.

In a significant development, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame have jointly called for an immediate ceasefire in eastern DRC, following direct discussions in Qatar. This meeting is pivotal as it marks the first engagement between the two leaders since the escalation of violence by Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, which has resulted in approximately 7,000 fatalities since January.

The fate of the ceasefire remains uncertain, particularly as the M23 rebels declined to participate in preceding peace talks in Angola. The DRC alleges that Rwanda has been providing military support to M23, a claim which Rwanda vehemently denies despite backing from both the United Nations and United States. Conversely, Rwanda asserts that its military actions are acts of self-defense against attacks from DRC forces and affiliated militias.

Rwanda’s alleged exploitation of DRC’s mineral resources has also fueled tensions, with DRC emphasizing the ongoing conflict’s economic dimensions. Past peace negotiations have faltered; notably, previous talks mediated by Angola collapsed when Rwanda insisted on a direct dialogue between the DRC government and M23, leading to the latter seizing control of Goma and Bukavu over the last two months.

On Tuesday, a joint statement from Qatar’s foreign ministry confirmed that both leaders pledged to pursue an unconditional ceasefire, albeit without clear guidelines on its implementation or monitoring. They agreed to continue discussions initiated in Doha to lay the foundation for a sustainable peace.

This diplomatic encounter surprised many, given the history of public criticisms exchanged between the leaders. The Rwandan presidency emphasized that direct discussions with M23 are crucial for resolving the underlying issues of the conflict. President Kagame expressed optimism that collaborative efforts could expedite progress toward peace.

The initiative for dialogue was reportedly led by Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Emir of Qatar. DRC’s communication highlighted this meeting as a preliminary step towards establishing lasting peace in the eastern region, signaling potential for further negotiations. This dialogue comes after a failed attempt to convene peace talks between the DRC government and M23 rebels, which fell apart on Monday following European Union sanctions targeting M23 leadership.

The recent ceasefire call by Presidents Tshisekedi and Kagame reflects a hopeful yet uncertain pathway towards peace in eastern DRC. The complexities surrounding the M23 rebels’ involvement and the accusations against Rwanda are critical to addressing the conflict’s roots. Continued dialogue, aided by Qatar’s mediation, may provide a framework for resolving ongoing tensions, but its success will depend on the commitment of all parties involved.

Original Source: www.namibian.com.na