The M23 armed group is ready to negotiate with the DR Congo government to end conflict. Angola will facilitate talks set to begin on March 18, 2025. While M23 views this as a positive step, they require President Tshisekedi’s public commitment to negotiations. The conflict has escalated with significant loss of life and allegations of Rwandan support, highlighting the urgency for resolution.
The M23 armed group has announced its readiness to engage in direct negotiations with the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to resolve the ongoing conflict in the eastern region. This area has been characterized by persistent violence and ethnic strife.
Since their resurgence in 2021, M23 has successfully seized significant territories rich in minerals, allegedly with the backing of Rwanda. In an official statement on March 13, 2025, M23 welcomed Angola’s offer to facilitate peace talks, which are scheduled to commence on March 18 in Luanda, the Angolan capital.
While M23 views these negotiations as a constructive development towards peace, the group emphasized the need for Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi to publicly commit to the talks. Tshisekedi has dismissed the prospect of negotiations, previously labeling M23 as “terrorists.” Nonetheless, Angolan President Joao Lourenco has confirmed that the dialogue will proceed following discussions with Tshisekedi.
The conflict has escalated since the beginning of 2025, with M23 gaining ground against the Congolese military, resulting in over 7,000 casualties, although this number remains unverified. Rwanda has denied providing military assistance to M23, despite a United Nations report indicating the presence of approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops in the DRC to support the group.
The M23 group’s willingness to negotiate signifies a potentially pivotal moment in addressing the ongoing conflict in the eastern DRC. Despite the Congolese government’s previous resistance to negotiation and the complexity of the situation, international facilitation may create pathways for dialogue. The continuing volatility, underscored by significant military advancements and casualties, necessitates urgent and decisive action towards peace.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
