As conflict escalates in eastern Congo, Catholic and Protestant churches are advocating for dialogue and mediation. Their efforts face government opposition, particularly regarding negotiations with M23 rebels. Despite these challenges, regional leaders and international diplomats are rallying to support the churches’ peace initiative, emphasizing the need for inclusive dialogue to resolve the crisis.
In light of the intensifying violence in eastern Congo, Catholic and Protestant church leaders are spearheading a mediation initiative aimed at promoting dialogue between conflicting parties. However, their efforts encounter significant resistance from the government and ongoing regional tensions, which jeopardize the potential for peace. The churches are determined to engage all stakeholders, including President Félix Tshisekedi and the M23 rebels, although the government’s unwillingness to negotiate poses a substantial hindrance to these talks.
On February 9, Congolese Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo voiced his commitment to dialogue with all parties involved in the conflict, underscoring the urgency for peace in both Congo and the broader Great Lakes region. Despite being supported by the National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO) and the Church of Christ in Congo (ECC), the mediation initiative has struggled to gain traction, especially as M23 rebels make advances in South Kivu.
The mediation initiative was officially launched on February 3, when Cardinal Ambongo met with President Tshisekedi in Kinshasa. During this meeting, they presented a “social pact for peace and coexistence.” The initially receptive president engaged in discussions, seeking clarification on how this initiative complemented ongoing peace efforts in Luanda and Nairobi.
Tensions flared during the delegation’s visit to Goma on February 12 to meet Corneille Nangaa of the political-military Congo River Alliance, which includes M23. The government perceives M23 as a terrorist faction and views negotiations with them as a legitimization of their actions. Some in the ruling party reportedly support the initiative privately, while opposition figures see potential political gains from it.
Undeterred by government resistance, church leaders continued their efforts, visiting Kigali to meet Rwandan President Paul Kagame, who endorsed intra-Congolese dialogue. Following this, they traveled to Kenya, where President William Ruto, chair of the East African Community, offered his support. Additionally, regional and international stakeholders—including bishops from Congo, Burundi, and Rwanda—have expressed support for peace in the region.
Despite backing from entities such as the European Union and the African Union, the churches face an uphill battle against a government wary of showcasing its vulnerabilities. Political decision-making tends to be driven by strategic interests, making the church-led initiative more challenging but essential for meaningful dialogue towards peace.
In summary, Catholic and Protestant church leaders in eastern Congo are striving to mediate dialogue amidst escalating violence. Their initiative encounters resistance from the government, particularly due to its stance on negotiations with M23 rebels. However, support from regional and international figures underscores the significance of their efforts. Ultimately, open communication remains vital for advancing peace in the region.
Original Source: international.la-croix.com
