M23 rebels will send a delegation to peace talks with the DRC government in Angola, marking a significant shift in relations. Both parties aim to negotiate amid ongoing violence exacerbated by regional tensions, particularly with Rwanda’s involvement. The conflict has resulted in substantial casualties and displacement in eastern DRC.
The Rwandan-backed M23 rebels announced on Monday their intention to dispatch a delegation to peace negotiations with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) government, scheduled to commence on Tuesday in Angola’s capital, Luanda. “The five-member delegation is expected to leave for Luanda on Monday for dialogue at the request of Angolan authorities,” stated Lawrence Kanyuka, a spokesperson for the AFC rebel alliance.
On the previous day, President Felix Tshisekedi’s office declared that Kinshasa would also send representatives to the discussions, marking a departure from its previous stance against negotiating with the M23 group. Angola is actively mediating efforts to establish a sustainable ceasefire and to alleviate tensions between the DRC and Rwanda, which the UN alleges provides military support to the M23 rebels.
Rwanda has claimed that its military operations are a defensive measure against the DRC army and militias that pose a threat to Kigali. The ongoing conflict, a remnant of Rwanda’s 1994 genocide, has persisted in eastern DRC for decades, aggravated by struggles over the country’s abundant mineral resources. The M23 group has expanded its territorial control this year, capturing areas it previously did not hold, including major cities in eastern DRC.
The DRC government has reported a staggering death toll of at least 7,000 individuals since the onset of fighting in January. Furthermore, the United Nations humanitarian affairs office notes that over 600,000 people have been displaced since November due to the violence.
In summary, the M23 rebels are embarking on peace negotiations with the DRC government in Angola, a significant shift triggered by Angola’s mediation efforts. Both sides will now participate in dialogue to address the ongoing hostilities that have resulted in considerable loss of life and displacement. The situation remains deeply intertwined with broader regional tensions, particularly involving Rwanda, highlighting the complexity of achieving lasting peace in the DRC.
Original Source: www.timeslive.co.za
