The DRC is scheduled to begin direct peace negotiations with the M23 rebels next week in Luanda, Angola. Mediator Angola announced the discussions, set for March 18, following the rebels’ recent territorial advances. The DRC is experiencing severe conflict-related violence, leading to substantial casualties and refugee displacements.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is set to enter direct peace negotiations with the M23 rebels next week, as mediated by Angola. A spokesperson for President Felix Tshisekedi confirmed that the DRC government has received an invitation from Angola to commence discussions scheduled for March 18 in the capital, Luanda.
These talks come in response to escalating tensions, particularly since the M23 rebels took control of Goma, a significant city in eastern Congo, in late January and subsequently seized Bukavu, the region’s second-largest city. Angola’s mediation is not new; the country has previously facilitated negotiations in this protracted conflict.
Amidst these developments, Rwanda has denied any support for the M23 group. This conflict has historical roots, deeply intertwined with the aftermath of the 1994 Rwandan genocide and the competition for control over the DRC’s extensive mineral resources.
Felix Tshisekedi recently visited Angola to discuss the possibility of peace talks, with his spokesperson indicating that an invitation was received, though it remains unclear if DRC will attend the discussions. M23 leader Bertrand Bisimwa asserted that pressure from the rebels has led to this negotiating opportunity, labeling it as a necessary step towards resolving the long-standing crisis.
Casualties from the conflict have been grave, with government reports indicating over 7,000 fatalities since January. Further compounding the crisis, the UN refugee agency reported nearly 80,000 people have fled their homes due to violence, with a significant number seeking refuge in Burundi.
The M23 group is one among approximately 100 armed factions contesting control of regions rich in essential minerals like coltan, cobalt, copper, and lithium. The presence of troops from neighboring countries such as South Africa, Burundi, and Uganda raises concerns about the potential for a broader regional conflict reminiscent of the catastrophic Congo wars of the late 20th century.
The DRC and M23 rebels are poised to initiate peace talks mediated by Angola amid a backdrop of intense conflict and humanitarian crisis. With significant casualty figures and a massive exodus of refugees, the potential for dialogue represents a critical step towards resolving decades of strife. However, the geopolitical stakes remain high, with regional implications threatening to escalate into broader warfare.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
