The M23 armed group has accused the DRC government of sabotaging peace talks set for Angola by escalating violence. Amid calls for a ceasefire by Angola, the DRC’s refusal to engage with the M23 presents complications. Additionally, Rwanda has severed its diplomatic ties with Belgium, alleging undermining actions amid the ongoing conflict.
In a recent development, the Rwanda-backed M23 armed group has accused the government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) of attempting to impede upcoming peace negotiations scheduled in Angola. Lawrence Kanyuka, spokesman for the M23 and the Congo River Alliance, charged that the DRC government has been bombing populated areas using fighter jets and drones, signifying an escalation intended to disrupt dialogue.
Recently, President Joao Lourenco of Angola called for a ceasefire to commence at midnight on Sunday, however, no parties have acknowledged this appeal. The DRC government did not respond to requests for comments regarding these accusations. Kanyuka confirmed the receipt of an invitation from Angola for direct talks set for Tuesday in Luanda.
Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi has historically declined to engage in discussions with the M23, which has made significant territorial gains in eastern DRC this year, reportedly supported by Rwandan troops. However, following a meeting in Luanda, direct negotiations were announced to commence on Tuesday. A representative for President Tshisekedi noted that a DRC delegation will indeed travel to Luanda but did not specify details regarding possible direct negotiations.
The M23 has gained control of major eastern cities such as Goma and Bukavu, regions rich in natural resources and adjacent to Rwanda. According to UN reports, approximately 4,000 Rwandan soldiers are believed to support the M23, a claim that Rwanda denies while asserting it faces a threat from ethnic Hutu fighters in the DRC. In a related incident, Rwanda announced the severance of diplomatic ties with Belgium, accusing the nation of consistently undermining Kigali in the ongoing conflict within the DRC.
In summary, the M23 movement has openly accused the DRC government of undermining prospective peace talks through violent actions, claiming efforts to disrupt significant dialogue scheduled in Angola. While Angola seeks a ceasefire, complications arise due to the DRC government’s history of refusal to negotiate with the M23, amidst ongoing territorial conflicts in the eastern DRC supported by Rwandan military forces. As the situation evolves, diplomatic relations continue to create further regional tension.
Original Source: www.jordantimes.com
