M23 rebels backed by Rwanda will attend peace talks with the DRC in Angola, reversing the DRC’s previous stance on negotiation. Angola is mediating to establish a ceasefire and reduce tensions, with the ongoing conflict resulting in over 7,000 deaths and significant displacement since January.
The M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, have announced their participation in upcoming peace talks with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) government in Angola’s capital, Luanda. A delegation of five members is set to depart on Monday to engage in dialogue, responding to a request from Angolan authorities, according to Lawrence Kanyuka, spokesperson for the rebel alliance.
This development comes as President Felix Tshisekedi’s office confirmed DRC will also be sending representatives to the talks, despite the government’s previous refusal to negotiate with M23. Angola aims to mediate a ceasefire and mitigate tensions between DRC and Rwanda, which has been accused by the U.N. of supporting the M23 with arms and troops.
Rwanda insists that its military actions are defensive, citing threats from the Congolese army and armed militias. The ongoing conflict, rooted in the aftermath of Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and competition over DRC’s mineral wealth, has intensified this year, with M23 capturing significant territories, including populous cities.
Since January, the DRC government reports that over 7,000 individuals have lost their lives due to the fighting, with at least 600,000 displaced since November, as highlighted by the U.N. humanitarian affairs office.
The M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, are set to attend peace talks in Angola as the DRC also sends representatives, marking a shift in its previous stance against negotiations. The conflict, deeply entrenched due to historical and resource-driven issues, continues to cause significant loss of life and displacement, calling for urgent mediation efforts to establish peace.
Original Source: theprint.in
