Presidents of Rwanda and DRC Address Eastern Congolese Conflict in Qatar

On March 18, 2023, DRC President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame discussed the eastern Congo conflict in Qatar, focusing on the M23 rebellion. The talks emphasized a commitment to a ceasefire despite the absence of the M23. The meeting coincided with a canceled peace dialogue in Angola due to sanctions against M23, with continued violence resulting in significant humanitarian crises. 850,000 displaced and 8,500 dead stress the urgency of achieving peace.

On March 18, 2023, the presidents of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda convened in Qatar to discuss the ongoing conflict in eastern Congo, specifically involving the Rwanda-backed March 23 Movement (M23) rebel group. Notably, representatives from the M23 were absent from this dialogue. A joint statement reaffirmed the commitment to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, with mediation from Qatari Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

The meeting coincided with a planned peace dialogue in Angola, which was thwarted by the M23’s withdrawal following European Union sanctions imposed on some of its leaders. Both heads of state recognized the importance of continuing discussions initiated in Doha to establish a foundation for sustainable peace.

Additionally, Kagame and Tshisekedi were expected to engage in a peace summit set for December 15, 2024, following a ceasefire agreement established in Luanda on July 30, 2024. However, this summit faced suspension over disagreements regarding M23’s inclusion in the negotiations, as Rwanda advocated for their participation while the DRC opposed it.

The Angolan mediation efforts on March 18 marked a significant moment, being the first direct engagement between the Congolese government and the M23. Unfortunately, the discussions were canceled due to what the Angolan Foreign Affairs Ministry described as “force majeure” circumstances.

The Congo River Alliance (AFC), which comprises M23 members, articulated their discontent regarding alleged international efforts to undermine peace negotiations, declaring that such actions obstruct the prospects for timely dialogue.

Since the escalation of the conflict in January, close to 850,000 individuals have been displaced in South Kivu, with reports indicating over 8,500 fatalities around the provincial capital of Goma, as stated by Congolese Minister of Public Health, Samuel Roger Kamba. The M23 group, primarily composed of Tutsis affected by the 1994 Rwandan genocide, resumed its aggression in November 2021, raising concerns over a potential regional war, amid ongoing hostilities dating back to 1998, despite the presence of the UN peacekeeping operation (MONUSCO).

The recent meeting between the presidents of the DRC and Rwanda in Qatar highlights the ongoing complexities of the eastern Congolese conflict, especially concerning the M23 rebel group. With international mediation efforts underway, the parties reaffirmed their commitment to peace and an immediate ceasefire, although challenges remain regarding direct negotiations. The humanitarian impact of this conflict continues to escalate, showcasing the urgent need for resolution to avoid further displacement and casualties.

Original Source: efe.com