A Catholic and Protestant delegation met with M23 rebel leaders in Goma to promote the ‘Social Pact for Peace and Coexistence in the Democratic Republic of Congo,’ aiming to foster dialogue and resolution of the ongoing conflict. M23 leaders showed openness to negotiations, and regional support is being sought to enhance the initiative’s effectiveness.
In Goma, a Catholic and Protestant delegation, including Donatien Nshole of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Congo (CENCO), engaged with M23 rebel leaders. The purpose was to emphasize that armed conflict is not a viable solution and to introduce the ‘Social Pact for Peace and Coexistence in the Democratic Republic of Congo.’ This pact aims to foster a dialogue that includes all relevant stakeholders amid the ongoing conflict.
The dialogue involved discussions with Corneille Nangaa, the political chief of the M23 militia, focusing on ways to achieve lasting peace. Nshole stated that this initiative is part of a broader effort that began in Kinshasa with President Félix Tshisekedi, aimed at mobilizing political parties crucial for crisis resolution. The churches presented their plans for a peaceful coexistence pact, seeking engagement from the M23.
The M23 leadership expressed their willingness to engage in dialogue, indicating an openness to the proposals made. Nshole noted the potential for resolving the ongoing conflicts peacefully, saying that the dynamics for negotiation had been established and accepted. The initiative looks to include rebels and political actors in exile and is designed to enhance regional cooperation with support from regional leaders.
To broaden their initiative’s regional appeal, CENCO and ECC have sought assistance from President Emmerson Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe and President William Ruto of Kenya, both influential leaders in their respective communities. This collaboration aims to facilitate comprehensive dialogue essential for addressing the multifaceted issues in the DRC, seeking sustainable peace.
The meeting between the Catholic and Protestant delegations and M23 leaders in Goma underscores the importance of dialogue over armed conflict. Their ‘Social Pact for Peace and Coexistence’ aims to unite various stakeholders, including rebels, to establish a foundation for sustainable peace in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Regional collaboration is also sought to enhance the initiative’s efficacy, emphasizing the need for inclusive discussions to resolve ongoing tensions.
Original Source: www.fides.org
