M23 rebels will attend peace talks with the DRC government in Angola, reversing previous negotiation refusals. The conflict, deeply rooted in historical issues, has led to significant casualties and displacement. Angola seeks to mediate for a ceasefire amid rising tensions with Rwanda.
The M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, announced their participation in peace talks with the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) government set to commence in Angola’s capital on Tuesday. According to Lawrence Kanyuka, spokesperson for the rebel alliance, a five-member delegation will depart for Luanda at the request of Angolan authorities.
On the preceding day, President Felix Tshisekedi’s office confirmed that Kinshasa would also send representatives, marking a significant shift from the government’s previous refusal to negotiate with the M23 rebels. Angola aims to mediate a sustainable ceasefire and mitigate tensions between the DRC and Rwanda, which has been accused of supplying arms to the rebel faction and deploying troops in support of them.
Rwanda maintains that its military actions are defensive, responding to threats from the Congolese army and hostile militias. The ongoing conflict in eastern Congo, deeply rooted in the aftermath of Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and struggles over mineral resource control, has intensified this year, with the M23 capturing territories including the two largest cities in eastern Congo.
According to the DRC government, the conflict has resulted in over 7,000 deaths since January, with at least 600,000 individuals displaced since November, as reported by the U.N. humanitarian affairs office. This situation highlights the urgent need for conflict resolution efforts and international attention.
In summary, the M23 rebels are set to engage in peace talks with the DRC in Angola, following a notable decision by the Congolese government to participate. Angola’s mediation efforts aim to establish a ceasefire and address the underlying tensions exacerbated by Rwandan involvement in the conflict. The humanitarian crisis continues to escalate, emphasizing the necessity for effective diplomacy and comprehensive solutions to the ongoing violence.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
