M23 rebels have withdrawn from peace talks with the DRC government after the EU imposed sanctions against them. This withdrawal occurred just before scheduled negotiations in Angola. The DRC government confirmed its attendance despite the M23’s decision. The conflict, rooted in historical tensions, has escalated recently, resulting in significant violence and humanitarian issues. UN accusations against Rwanda further complicate the situation.
On Monday, M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, withdrew from peace talks with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) just a day before negotiations were scheduled to begin in Angola. This decision came in response to new European Union sanctions imposed earlier that day against M23 and certain Rwandan officials. The Congo River Alliance expressed that these sanctions were seen as a hindrance to the anticipated discussions.
Historically, M23 has called for direct negotiations with the DRC’s government, led by President Felix Tshisekedi, who has previously refused, claiming M23 serves as a proxy for Rwanda. However, following recent military setbacks, President Tshisekedi agreed to send a delegation to Angola, changing his earlier stance.
Despite M23’s withdrawal, Tina Salama, a spokesperson for the Tshisekedi administration, confirmed the government’s attendance in Luanda, stating they would participate at the mediators’ invitation. The ongoing conflict, which has roots in the aftermath of Rwanda’s 1994 genocide, has intensified significantly since January, leading to widespread violence and displacement across eastern Congo.
The EU’s sanctions are deemed to be among the most extensive imposed on M23 and Rwanda amid the escalating conflict. According to Zobel Behalal from the Global Initiative against Transnational Organized Crime, these sanctions are indicative of the financial motivations behind Rwanda’s involvement in the region, particularly targeting Rwanda’s mines board and a gold refinery.
In a statement, the M23-affiliated Congo River Alliance criticized the sanctions, stating that such moves undermine efforts for direct dialogue and hinder progress towards peace. Concurrently, Rwanda cut diplomatic ties with Belgium after the country called for severe EU measures against Kigali, with Belgium’s Foreign Affairs Minister labeling Rwanda’s response as “disproportionate.”
In summary, the M23 rebels’ withdrawal from peace talks has heightened tensions in the ongoing conflict within the Democratic Republic of Congo, exacerbated by new EU sanctions. While the DRC government remains committed to participating in the discussions, the sanctions are viewed as detrimental to the peace process. The diplomatic fallout between Rwanda and Belgium adds another layer of complexity to the situation that requires careful attention from international observers.
Original Source: www.straitstimes.com
