General Sultani Makenga of the M23 rebel group has welcomed upcoming peace talks with the Congolese government, emphasizing a desire for negotiation despite ongoing tensions. He criticized President Tshisekedi and outlined the M23’s mission to combat discrimination in eastern DR Congo. The conflict has escalated with the M23’s recent control of Goma and Bukavu, asserting their actions are in defense against threats from government forces.
General Sultani Makenga, the military leader of the M23 rebel group, expressed his support for the impending peace talks between the rebels and the Congolese government scheduled for March 18 in Luanda, Angola. During an interview conducted by Alain Destexhe, a former Belgian senator, Makenga acknowledged the announcement but indicated that they had yet to hear from the Congolese government regarding its stance on the negotiations.
The possibility of these direct talks emerged following a meeting between Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Angolan President João Lourenço, who also plays a significant role in the African Union. Historically, previous peace negotiations in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have excluded the M23; however, this time, the Angolan presidency confirmed that both factions would engage in direct discussions.
Makenga described President Tshisekedi in stark terms, stating, “he [Tshisekedi] has no love for his country, he is a bandit.” He reiterated the M23’s commitment to fighting against injustice and discrimination faced by Congolese Rwandophones, asserting that their struggle is rooted in survival and aimed at combating tribalism and corruption.
The conflict in eastern DRC has escalated since 2021, involving a coalition of government forces, including FDLR and various international allies, combating the M23 rebels. Recently, the M23 has been integrated into a broader coalition named the Alliance fleuve Congo (AFC), led by Corneille Nangaa, a former electoral commission president of DRC.
Makenga emphasized that their military actions are defensive, stating they do not intend to continue their offensive or advance toward Kinshasa unless provoked. He stressed their fight is for survival, criticizing the global community for its failure to recognize their plight and providing an instance of violence against Tutsi communities in North Kivu as part of their justification for armed resistance.
Despite taking control of Goma and Bukavu, the M23 did not seek to conquer these cities but felt compelled to act against continuous threats from government forces. Residents reported a restoration of peace and normalcy following the M23’s intervention, which included efforts to rebuild essential infrastructure. Nevertheless, Makenga reported ongoing attacks from Congolese forces, citing drone strikes that violate prior ceasefire agreements.
The article highlights General Sultani Makenga’s approval of the impending peace talks between the M23 rebel group and the Congolese government, acknowledging the complexities and historical context of the conflict. Makenga’s statements reflect the M23’s pursuit for recognition, survival, and reconciliation in the face of systemic violence and discrimination. While there appears to be a potential for dialogue, underlying tensions and accusations against the Congolese government continue to shape this unfolding narrative.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw
