M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, will join peace talks with the DRC government in Angola, marking a pivotal shift in negotiations. Both parties aim to address ongoing conflicts rooted in historical grievances and resource control, amid a humanitarian crisis with significant casualties and displacements reported.
M23 rebels, reportedly backed by Rwanda, have announced their intention to participate in peace talks with the Democratic Republic of Congo, set to commence in Luanda, Angola. A five-member delegation is scheduled to depart for the capital on Monday, as confirmed by Lawrence Kanyuka, spokesperson for the AFC rebel alliance, which includes M23. This engagement follows a request from Angolan authorities.
In a notable shift, President Felix Tshisekedi’s office declared that the Congolese government will also send representatives to the talks, moving away from its previous stance of refusing to negotiate with the rebels. Angola aims to mediate a ceasefire and alleviate tensions between Congo and Rwanda, which is accused by various entities, including the United Nations, of supplying weapons and troops to the M23.
Rwanda maintains that its military actions are defensive, prompted by threats from the Congolese army and local militias. This persistent conflict, deeply rooted in the aftermath of Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and the competition for Congo’s mineral wealth, has intensified. M23 has seized territories it had not previously controlled, including east Congo’s major urban centers and numerous smaller areas.
Congo’s government has reported over 7,000 fatalities from the ongoing clashes since January, with the United Nations estimating at least 600,000 people displaced by violence since November. The humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate as the conflict persists.
The participation of M23 rebels in peace talks in Angola signifies a crucial step towards addressing the long-standing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The dialogue aims to establish a ceasefire and reduce tensions between Congo and Rwanda, where accusations of military support for rebels remain prevalent. With significant casualties and displacements reported, the urgency for peace and stability in the region cannot be understated.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
