Ceasefire terms in the eastern DRC are uncertain after a summit between President Tshisekedi and Kagame in Doha, mediated by Qatar. Conflicts escalate with M23’s recent advances. A roadmap has been established for a potential ceasefire, but past diplomatic efforts have repeatedly failed.
The terms for a potential ceasefire in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) remain vague following talks between President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame in Doha. The meeting occurred against the backdrop of intensified conflict, with the M23 group, allegedly supported by Rwanda, seizing two provincial capitals recently.
Angola’s planned peace talks in Luanda were cancelled, leading to an unexpected summit in Qatar, mediated by Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani. Both leaders expressed a commitment to ceasefire during the discussions, aligning with an agreement made at a recent African summit. A statement mentioned that the meeting was productive in fostering confidence across the region.
Qatar noted that further negotiations are needed to establish a robust framework for lasting peace. The Congolese presidency announced that detailed terms will be defined shortly, emphasizing the importance of setting a clear ceasefire roadmap.
Political analyst Tresor Kibangula highlighted that DRC has been hesitant regarding Qatari mediation due to perceptions of Qatar’s closeness to Rwanda, linked to its significant investments in both countries. Qatar’s prior peace mediation attempts in the DRC also illustrate its long-term involvement in the conflict resolution process.
Recent developments have called for a ceasefire from regional leaders, the East African Community, and the Southern African Development Community, amidst concerns of a broader regional war. The roadmap, approved in Harare, proposes a permanent ceasefire within four months, involving UN peacekeeper support in North Kivu and South Kivu provinces.
Previous diplomatic initiatives to resolve the conflict have faltered, with multiple ceasefires being established and broken over time. Tensions intensified since January when the M23 captured key cities, resulting in significant casualties. Kinshasa accuses Kigali of backing the M23 militarily, while Rwanda defends its position by citing its need to counter threats from the DRC-based FDLR group.
In conclusion, the situation in the eastern DRC remains precarious with unclear ceasefire terms following the recent summit between Congolese and Rwandan leaders. Despite expressions of commitment to ceasefire, historical failures of diplomatic resolutions cast doubt on future efforts. Continued negotiations and defined ceasefire terms will be crucial for establishing lasting peace in the region.
Original Source: thesun.my
