Congo’s M23 rebels will attend peace talks alongside the DRC government in Angola, a shift for the DRC, which previously refused negotiation. The conflict has deep historical roots and has led to significant casualties and displacement. Angola aims to mediate a ceasefire amid these tensions.
M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, announced on Monday that they will send a five-member delegation to participate in peace talks with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) government. The talks are set to begin on Tuesday in Luanda, Angola’s capital. This decision follows a request from Angolan authorities, according to Lawrence Kanyuka, the spokesperson for the AFC rebel alliance, which includes M23.
President Felix Tshisekedi’s office confirmed on Sunday that the DRC will also send representatives to the talks, marking a significant shift from the government’s previous stance of refusing to negotiate with the rebel group. Angola has been actively seeking to mediate a ceasefire and reduce tensions between Congo and neighboring Rwanda, accused by the U.N. of supplying arms and military support to the M23 group.
The ongoing conflict in eastern Congo is linked to historical events, notably the 1994 Rwandan genocide and competition for the region’s valuable mineral resources. The situation intensified this year, with M23 taking control of territories previously out of reach, including two major cities.
Since January, the DRC government claims that at least 7,000 deaths have occurred due to the conflict, while the U.N. humanitarian affairs office reports that over 600,000 people have been displaced since November. The looming peace talks could represent a critical step toward addressing this long-standing crisis in the region.
The upcoming peace talks in Angola mark a key development in the DRC’s ongoing conflict with M23 rebels. With both parties agreeing to dialogue, there is a potential for progress towards a ceasefire. However, historical tensions and the humanitarian impact of the conflict pose significant challenges for lasting peace in the region.
Original Source: www.thestar.com.my
