The DRC government and M23 rebels are scheduled to begin direct peace talks in Luanda, Angola on March 18, mediated by Angola. This follows increased violence, including significant casualties and vast numbers of displaced individuals since January. M23 leader claims negotiations are necessary for civil resolution. Regional troop deployments heighten concerns about a broader conflict.
Next week, direct negotiations between the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) government and the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels are set to commence in Luanda, Angola, as announced by Angolan mediator officials. This announcement follows an invitation to participate in peace talks from Angola, according to a spokesperson for DRC President Felix Tshisekedi. The discussions are initiated in light of the ongoing conflict that escalated markedly in January 2023.
Angola has a history of mediation efforts in the DRC conflict, which has recently intensified due to the M23 capturing key areas, including the eastern city of Goma and, subsequently, Bukavu. Tensions within the region also stem from the historical context surrounding Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and the struggle to dominate the abundant mineral resources of the DRC.
Despite allegations of support for M23 by Rwanda, the Rwandan government has consistently denied these claims. On March 7, President Tshisekedi sought discussions in Angola, where indications towards this upcoming dialogue were further confirmed by his spokesperson, Tina Salama, though participation remains unverified. M23 leader Bertrand Bisimwa has publicly remarked that the DRC’s government was compelled to negotiate, asserting it as the “only civilized option.”
The conflict to date has resulted in significant human tragedies, with reports indicating at least 7,000 casualties since its resurgence. The United Nations refugee agency noted an alarming displacement of nearly 80,000 individuals since January, exacerbated by violence, particularly in regions bordering Burundi. Many neighboring countries, including South Africa, Burundi, and Uganda, have deployed troops to the eastern DRC, raising concerns regarding a potential escalation into a broader regional conflict similar to previous Congo wars that claimed millions of lives.
In conclusion, the DRC and M23 rebels are set to engage in significant peace negotiations in Angola amid escalating violence and humanitarian crises. The participation of both parties remains uncertain; however, the mediator’s involvement underscores the urgency of addressing the longstanding conflict and its profound human costs. With regional implications at stake, successful dialogue may be pivotal in preventing further deterioration of the situation in the DRC and its surrounding nations.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
