Angola is mediating peace talks between the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Rwandan-backed M23 militia. Following earlier unsuccessful attempts, Angola will engage in negotiations with both parties. The M23 militia’s activities have exacerbated a humanitarian crisis in the region, prompting UN investigations into human rights violations.
Angola is set to mediate peace talks between the Democratic Republic of Congo and the M23 militia, which is backed by Rwanda. A press release from Angolan President Joao Lourenco was issued as Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi visited Angola to explore peace processes. Angola will engage with both the Congolese government and the M23 militia, initiating direct negotiations in the coming days.
This announcement comes after several previous attempts at peace talks in Angola, which had focused on Rwanda rather than directly involving the M23 militia. The militia is among multiple armed groups disputing control in eastern Congo, an area rich in minerals, leading to a humanitarian crisis that has displaced over seven million individuals.
The M23 militia reportedly receives support from approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops. Recently, they temporarily captured Goma, the primary city in eastern Congo, and overtook Bukavu as well. In light of these events, the UN Human Rights Council has begun investigating severe human rights violations, including accusations of rape and extrajudicial killings by both parties involved in the conflict.
In summary, Angola’s initiative to mediate peace talks aims to address the ongoing conflict between the Democratic Republic of Congo and the M23 militia. This effort follows previous unsuccessful negotiations and underscores the dire humanitarian situation in eastern Congo. With the backing of Rwandan troops, the militia’s advances have prompted international attention and investigations into human rights abuses, indicating the urgent need for resolution.
Original Source: morningstaronline.co.uk
