Peace talks between the DRC government and M23 rebels are scheduled for March 18 in Angola. The conflict has claimed thousands of lives and displaced hundreds of thousands since its resurgence in January 2025. Angola is mediating as the DRC accuses Rwanda of backing the rebels. DRC President Tshisekedi’s participation is uncertain despite an invitation to negotiate. The M23 group, largely comprising Tutsis, formed in 2012 due to ethnic grievances and power struggles.
Peace talks are set to occur between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) government and M23 rebels in Angola on March 18. This revelation comes amid a prolonged conflict that began in January 2025, leading to substantial loss of life and mass displacement. Reports indicate that Angola is acting as a mediator in this escalating conflict, particularly after the M23 took control of the crucial city of Goma and subsequently Bukavu.
The Congolese government estimates that at least 7,000 individuals have died in the ongoing strife, and around 600,000 people have been displaced since November 2024, according to the UN Office for Humanitarian Affairs. The DRC government alleges that Rwanda supports the M23 rebels, which Rwanda has denied.
DRC President Felix Tshisekedi visited Angola on March 11 to explore negotiation possibilities. His spokeswoman confirmed that an invitation for talks was received, although his participation in the negotiations remains uncertain. M23 rebel leader Bertrand Bisimwa indicated in a social media post that forcing Tshisekedi to the negotiation table is a necessary step toward a resolution.
The M23 rebels emerged in 2012 as a splinter group from the National Congress for the Defence of the People (CNDP) and have been active in eastern Congo, primarily consisting of Tutsi people. Discontent over perceived discrimination and competition for resources motivated their rebellion. Recently, M23 fighters and Rwandan troops resumed offensives in eastern DRC, capturing regions despite a declared ceasefire.
The upcoming peace talks in Angola represent a critical effort to address the protracted conflict between the DRC government and the M23 rebels. These discussions aim to halt the violence that has resulted in significant casualties and displacement. While the involvement of Angola as a mediator may provide a diplomatic avenue, the outcome remains uncertain, particularly given the complex regional dynamics and ongoing hostilities.
Original Source: unn.ua
