Direct peace talks between the DRC and M23 rebels are set to begin on 18 March in Angola. The situation is critical, with over 7,000 deaths reported since January, amid growing concerns over human rights and regional stability. Angola’s role as mediator aims to facilitate a ceasefire and dialogue.
The Angolan presidency announced that direct peace talks between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and M23 rebels will commence in the capital, Luanda, on 18 March. This initiative follows Angola’s efforts to mediate a lasting ceasefire amid heightened tensions between Congo and Rwanda, which has been accused of supporting the rebels. Rwanda has denied these allegations.
Congo’s government had previously resisted direct engagements with M23 but acknowledged Angola’s mediation proposal on Tuesday. Tina Salama, spokesperson for President Felix Tshisekedi of Congo, confirmed the receipt of an invitation from Angola, though she did not clarify the government’s participation.
M23 leader Bertrand Bisimwa indicated on X that negotiating with Tshisekedi was essential for resolving the ongoing crisis, which has escalated since January. Meanwhile, the extraordinary Southern African Development Community (SADC) summit scheduled for Thursday will discuss the eastern DRC situation, emphasizing the regional implications of the armed conflict.
M23 has captured provincial capitals Goma and Bukavu and is progressing in surrounding villages, exacerbating the long-standing conflict. The unrest traces back to Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and is intertwined with the scramble for Congo’s mineral wealth, including coltan and cobalt, essential for emerging technologies.
The DRC government reports that since January, at least 7,000 individuals have died due to the conflict. Additionally, the United Nations humanitarian affairs office has noted over 600,000 displaced persons since November. Concerns are rising regarding civil liberties in M23-controlled areas, with Human Rights Watch reporting increased pressures on civil society members and journalists.
The dynamics also involve neighboring countries like Burundi, Uganda, and South Africa deploying troops in eastern DRC, heightening fears of a broader regional conflict reminiscent of the Congolese wars of the 1990s, which resulted in millions of deaths. The urgent need for dialogue and resolution remains a paramount concern on the international stage.
In summary, the impending direct peace talks in Angola represent a significant attempt to resolve the escalating conflict involving the M23 rebels in the DRC. Amidst considerable regional instability and humanitarian crises, Angola’s mediation initiative highlights a crucial step towards a potential resolution. However, the situation remains precarious, with dire implications for both national and regional peace.
Original Source: www.inkl.com
