The M23 armed group has accused the DRC government of sabotaging peace talks scheduled for Angola, citing recent bombings of civilian areas. Despite calls for a ceasefire, tensions persist as peace negotiations begin. Rwanda has also cut diplomatic ties with Belgium in response to perceived biases regarding the DRC conflict.
The M23 group, an armed faction backed by Rwanda, has accused the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) government of attempting to sabotage upcoming peace talks in Angola. M23 spokesman Lawrence Kanyuka claimed the DRC recently escalated violence by utilizing fighter jets and drones to strike populated areas, signaling an intent to disrupt what he calls a “long-awaited dialogue.”
Kanyuka also affirmed receipt of Angola’s invitation to engage in direct talks scheduled for Tuesday in Luanda. Angolan President Joao Lourenco has called for a ceasefire starting Sunday at midnight, although responses from involved parties remain absent. Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi has previously declined to meet with M23, which has gained significant territory in eastern DRC recently with Rwandan support.
Following a visit from Tshisekedi to Luanda, peace negotiations are set to commence. A DRC delegation is confirmed to travel to Luanda, though details on the delegation’s composition and their willingness to participate in direct discussions are unclear. M23 has continued to expand its control in resource-rich regions near the Rwandan border, with reports citing around 4,000 Rwandan troops assisting their operations.
In a related development, Rwanda has severed diplomatic ties with Belgium due to accusations of the latter’s biased involvement in the DRC conflict. The Rwandan government stated that Belgium’s actions have undermined Kigali, prompting the expulsion of Belgian diplomats within 48 hours to protect national interests and dignity.
The accusations from M23 come as tensions rise in the DRC, with concerns about the potential for further escalation undermining peace efforts. The upcoming peace talks in Angola represent a critical opportunity for dialogue, although skepticism remains regarding the DRC government’s participation. The severance of diplomatic ties with Belgium reflects broader geopolitical tensions that complicate the conflict in the DRC, where external influences play a significant role in the ongoing crisis.
Original Source: jordantimes.com
