Angola will host peace talks between the DRC and M23 rebels on March 18, amid escalating tensions and humanitarian crises in the eastern DRC, where the M23 has gained ground. The DRC government has yet to confirm participation. Regional discussions amongst Southern African leaders will explore the conflict’s broader implications, particularly regarding regional security forces.
Angola’s presidency announced that direct peace talks between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and M23 rebels will commence in Luanda on 18 March. Until now, the DRC government has only acknowledged the receipt of this significant message, amidst ongoing tensions in the region.
Angola’s initiative for direct dialogue comes as part of its efforts to mediate a sustainable ceasefire between the DRC and Rwanda, which has faced accusations of supporting the M23, led by Tutsi rebels. Although Rwanda has denied these allegations, Angola seeks resolution through dialogue, a move that has previously been refused by the Congolese government.
The spokesperson for Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi confirmed that they have received the Angolan invitation to negotiate but did not clarify whether they would participate. Meanwhile, M23 leader Bertrand Bisimwa claimed responsibility for bringing the DRC to the negotiating table, describing negotiations as “the only civilised option to resolve the current crisis.”
An extraordinary summit of Southern African Development Community (SADC) leaders is scheduled to discuss the crisis in eastern DRC, chaired by Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa. This summit aims to address the status of regional forces present in eastern Congo, where the conflict has intensified, resulting in the seizure of provincial capitals Goma and Bukavu by the rebels since January.
In summary, Angola will facilitate peace talks between the DRC and M23 rebels on March 18, marking a potential shift toward addressing ongoing conflict. The DRC government has indicated it may engage, while the humanitarian situation remains dire, with significant casualties and displacements. The regional summit also highlights the broader implications of the conflict in central Africa and the urgent need for resolution for stability.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
