M23 has accused the DRC government of sabotage ahead of peace talks in Angola. Spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka claims the government is bombing populated areas to derail negotiations. Following Tshisekedi’s visit to Luanda, talks are scheduled for Tuesday, with a ceasefire call made by Angolan President Lourenco. The M23 group has gained significant territory in eastern DRC, backed by Rwandan troops.
The Rwanda-backed armed group M23 has accused the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) government of attempting to undermine direct peace talks scheduled to take place in Angola. The M23 spokesperson, Lawrence Kanyuka, alleged that the DRC government is using fighter jets and drones to bombard populated areas, escalating tensions ahead of the scheduled dialogue.
In his statement, Kanyuka pointed to this “deadly escalation” as evidence of the Kinshasa regime’s intentions to derail the much-anticipated dialogue. He confirmed that the M23 had received an invitation from Angola for direct talks with the DRC government scheduled for Tuesday in Luanda. No immediate response from the DRC government was made available.
Angolan President Joao Lourenco proposed a ceasefire commencing Sunday at midnight, yet it remains unclear if any parties will heed this request. Although Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi has been reluctant to engage with the M23, recent developments following his visit to Luanda led to the announcement of upcoming peace negotiations. Since January, M23 has gained control over major cities like Goma and Bukavu, which lie strategically near the Rwandan border and are rich in resources. A report by UN experts estimates that around 4,000 Rwandan soldiers are backing the M23 group.
In summary, the M23 group has levied serious accusations against the DRC government, suggesting attempts to sabotage peace talks amidst ongoing conflict. With major eastern cities under M23 control and Rwandan military support, the situation remains tense as both sides prepare for direct negotiations in Angola. The call for a ceasefire from Angola represents a critical moment, yet its acceptance remains uncertain.
Original Source: www.jacarandafm.com
