Direct peace talks between the DRC and M23 rebels will begin in Angola on March 18, following Angola’s efforts to mediate the conflict. The situation remains tense, with the DRC government cautiously acknowledging the proposal. Over 7,000 deaths have occurred, and human rights concerns are mounting in the wake of the violence, raising fears of a potential regional war.
On March 18, direct peace talks between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and M23 rebels are set to commence in Angola’s capital. This announcement was made by Angola’s presidency, which also revealed its intentions to mediate the discussions. Meanwhile, the Congolese presidency has acknowledged receipt of this information without confirming participation.
Angola’s initiative is aimed at fostering a sustainable ceasefire amid ongoing tensions involving Rwanda, which has been accused of supporting the M23 rebel group. These allegations have been denied by Rwanda. The Congolese government has previously resisted direct negotiations with the rebels but has now taken note of the Angolan efforts.
Tina Salama, a spokesperson for Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi, confirmed media reports regarding Angola’s invitation but did not state whether the government would engage in the talks. M23 leader Bertrand Bisimwa has expressed confidence in compelling President Tshisekedi to negotiate, describing it as the sole civilized solution to the escalating crisis.
The ongoing situation will also be addressed at a special summit of Southern African Development Community (SADC) heads of state, chaired by Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa. This meeting aims to discuss the deployment of regional armed forces in eastern DRC, where M23 has captured major provincial capitals and is advancing into smaller villages.
The conflict is deeply intertwined with historical grievances from Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and the intense competition for control of DRC’s mineral resources, vital for global technology and green energy. The Congolese government has reported over 7,000 fatalities and approximately 600,000 displaced individuals since November. Human Rights Watch has raised alarms over declining civil liberties in M23-controlled areas, noting increased threats against activists and journalists, with some fatalities attributed to the rebels’ actions.
Concerns are mounting that the conflict may escalate into a broader regional war, reminiscent of the devastating Congo wars of the late 20th century, as several neighboring countries maintain troop presence in eastern DRC.
The upcoming direct peace talks mediated by Angola represent a critical opportunity to address the conflict involving the DRC and M23 rebels. While acknowledgment from the Congolese government of Angola’s initiative marks a shift, uncertainties about participation persist. The ongoing fighting has led to significant human suffering and displacement, making resolution urgent to prevent further escalation.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
