Residents of Goma express disappointment after M23 rebels boycott Angola-led peace talks, citing European sanctions as their reason. This decision has spurred feelings of hopelessness in the community. Civil society demands inclusion in the negotiations, emphasizing the multidimensional nature of the crisis. The Congolese government is still participating in discussions seeking peace.
Residents of Goma have expressed their frustrations following the M23 rebel group’s refusal to participate in peace talks initiated by Angola. Local media indicates that this boycotting decision has contributed to a prevailing sense of hopelessness among the populace, particularly those who had sought refuge amidst the crisis following the group’s takeover of the city.
The M23 group’s decision to abstain from the talks, which were anticipated to address the ongoing violence, was a direct response to European sanctions imposed on some of its members. Spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka voiced the group’s grievances, stating that these sanctions hinder peace initiatives. “Successive sanctions imposed on our members…seriously compromise direct dialogue and prevent any progress,” Kanyuka stated regarding the group’s stance on negotiations.
The disappointment among Goma residents is palpable, with many questioning the rationality of the M23’s refusal to engage in dialogue. Some locals articulated their frustration, asserting, “European Union sanctions should not justify such a boycott. These discussions are aimed at engaging with the Congolese state, and the M23 claims to be Congolese.”
In light of the situation, civil society organizations have advocated for their involvement in direct negotiations between the M23 and the Congolese government. Danny Singoma, executive secretary of the Network for the Promotion of Democracy and Economic and Social Rights (PRODDES), emphasized the complexity of the regional crisis, which extends beyond the M23 conflict, impacting various dimensions.
Singoma remarked, “These organisations believe that the security crisis in the DRC is not limited to the M23 issue… other regions of the country… are seriously affected by similar crises.” This perspective is shared among local civil society groups who stress the necessity for multiple stakeholders to contribute to discussions on addressing the crisis.
The Congolese government has dispatched a delegation to Luanda for the negotiations mediated by Angolan President João Lourenço, although Angola has not publicly responded to the M23’s boycott.
The refusal of the M23 rebel group to attend peace negotiations has led to widespread disappointment among Goma’s residents, who view these talks as a potential pathway to resolving ongoing conflicts. Calls from civil society for broader participation in discussions reflect a recognition of the conflict’s complex nature. The Congolese government continues to pursue dialogue, underscoring the need for collaboration among all involved parties to foster long-term peace.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
