Congo Rebel Leader Rejects Qatar Mediation and U.S. Minerals Deal

Corneille Nangaa, leader of the Congo River Alliance, stated the group will not accept a ceasefire from recent talks in Qatar between Congolese and Rwandan presidents. He emphasized their determination to continue fighting, regardless of foreign negotiations. Furthermore, he dismissed a proposed U.S. minerals-for-security deal, claiming the Congolese people would resist such arrangements.

The leader of the rebel alliance in eastern Congo, Corneille Nangaa, stated that the group will not adhere to a ceasefire called during a recent meeting in Qatar between Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame. This interaction marked the first between the two leaders since M23’s aggressive territorial advancement. The rebel group distanced itself from direct talks with Tshisekedi’s government, which were expected to occur in Angola.

“We will fight until our cause is heard,” Nangaa declared, emphasizing the group’s determination. He added that the ongoing developments in Doha are irrelevant to the rebels until they are informed of any specifics that could address their grievances. Nangaa further rejected the idea of a U.S. minerals-for-security arrangement, asserting that the Congolese people would oppose such an agreement, viewing it as deceptive.

The State Department had indicated its willingness to consider partnerships for critical minerals with Congo, yet Kinshasa has yet to clarify its position publicly. The situation underscores the complexity of negotiations in the region, particularly concerning foreign involvement and local sovereignty.

In summary, the leader of the Congo River Alliance has made clear that his group does not recognize the recent ceasefire proposed in Qatar, insisting that they will continue their fight until their issues are addressed. Additionally, the group’s rejection of potential U.S. agreements regarding minerals highlights the tension between local sovereignty and foreign interests in Congo.

Original Source: www.marketscreener.com