The M23 armed group is open to negotiations with the Congolese government to resolve ongoing conflict. Angola will facilitate peace talks beginning on March 18, 2025. The group urges President Tshisekedi to publicly commit to direct negotiations, despite his previous rejections. The situation remains perilous, with significant casualties reported and alleged Rwandan military support complicating the conflict.
The M23 armed group has indicated its readiness to engage in direct negotiations with the Congolese government to resolve the ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The conflict has involved a prolonged struggle between the M23 and the Congolese army, stemming from longstanding violence and ethnic tensions in the region.
Since re-emerging in 2021, the M23 has seized extensive areas of mineral-rich territory within the DRC, reportedly with assistance from Rwanda. On March 18, 2025, peace talks are set to commence in Luanda, Angola, following an announcement by the Angolan government to facilitate these negotiations.
In a statement on March 13, 2025, the M23 welcomed the initiative as a constructive move towards peace but emphasized the necessity for President Felix Tshisekedi to outwardly commit to negotiations, identifying this as a critical step towards achieving stability. Previously, President Tshisekedi has dismissed the notion of negotiations with the M23, labeling them as “terrorists.”
Despite President Tshisekedi’s hesitance, Angolan President Joao Lourenco confirmed that the discussions would proceed after his meeting with Tshisekedi. As of early 2025, the M23 has made considerable gains against Congolese military forces, leading to an unverified toll of over 7,000 casualties in the conflict.
Rwanda has refuted claims of providing military support to the M23; however, a report from UN experts indicates that approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops may be stationed in the DRC to assist the group. This ongoing situation continues to raise concerns regarding the potential for escalation in violence in the region.
The M23’s willingness to negotiate with the Congolese government represents a significant development in addressing the conflict in eastern DRC. While Angola’s facilitation of peace talks offers hope, the necessity for a public commitment from President Tshisekedi remains crucial. The complex dynamics involving Rwanda further complicate the situation, underscoring the need for comprehensive dialogue to prevent further escalation of violence.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
