The Democratic Republic of Congo will participate in peace talks with Rwandan-backed rebels in Angola on Tuesday. President Tshisekedi is reconsidering dialogue amidst military defeats. The M23 rebels have confirmed receipt of the invitation and made demands, including a public commitment to negotiations from Tshisekedi.
The Democratic Republic of Congo is poised to send a delegation to Angola on Tuesday for peace negotiations regarding the escalating conflict with Rwandan-backed rebel forces, as announced by the presidency on Sunday. These discussions aim to address the deteriorating security situation in eastern Congo.
Angola had previously indicated that direct peace talks with the M23 rebels would commence in its capital, Luanda, on March 18. President Felix Tshisekedi, who has historically dismissed negotiations with the M23 group, is reportedly re-evaluating his stance following recent military setbacks and diminishing regional support.
Presidency spokesperson Tina Salama stated, “At this stage, we cannot say who will make up the delegation.” Meanwhile, M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka confirmed the group’s acknowledgment of Angola’s invitation for talks. Following the announcement, the M23 has articulated several demands, notably requesting that Tshisekedi publicly affirm his willingness to negotiate directly.
In summary, the Democratic Republic of Congo is preparing to engage in peace talks with Rwandan-backed rebels in Angola, a significant shift in President Tshisekedi’s approach. The M23 rebels have set forth conditions for dialogue, emphasizing the need for a public commitment to negotiation from the Congolese leadership. These developments underscore the ongoing complexities of the conflict and the quest for resolution in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Original Source: www.straitstimes.com
