The DRC and M23 rebels will start direct peace talks next week, mediated by Angola, with discussions scheduled for March 18 in Luanda. The conflict has escalated, leading to thousands of deaths and mass displacement. Historical issues and resource control continue to fuel tensions, raising fears of regional instability.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) will initiate direct peace negotiations with the M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, next week in Luanda, Angola. This announcement came from a statement issued by Angolan President Joao Lourenco’s office, confirming that the talks are scheduled for March 18. The DRC government has acknowledged receiving an invitation to participate in these discussions, as conveyed by spokesperson Tina Salama.
Angola has a history of mediating in the eastern DRC conflict, notably intensified in January when M23 gained control of the significant city of Goma, followed by the capture of Bukavu. The root causes of the conflict stem from Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and the competition for DRC’s abundant mineral resources, although Rwanda denies backing the M23 armed faction.
During a visit to Angola, DRC President Felix Tshisekedi discussed facilitating these talks. M23 leader Bertrand Bisimwa emphasized the group’s position, stating they had effectively compelled Tshisekedi into negotiations, which he labeled as the “only civilized option.” The ongoing conflict has had dire consequences, with the DRC government reporting over 7,000 deaths since January, and nearly 80,000 individuals have fled the violence, as per the United Nations refugee agency.
The M23 is one of approximately 100 armed factions in eastern Congo, all struggling for control over valuable resources like coltan and cobalt. Additionally, regional tensions are escalating, with neighboring countries such as South Africa, Burundi, and Uganda maintaining troop presences in eastern Congo. This situation raises concerns of a potential regional conflict reminiscent of the catastrophic Congo wars of the late 20th century, which resulted in millions of casualties.
The DRC and M23 rebels are set to engage in peace talks mediated by Angola, aiming to resolve the escalating conflict that has claimed many lives and displaced tens of thousands. Angola’s intervention and the acknowledgment of prior mediation efforts highlight the complex dynamics of the conflict, which intertwines historical grievances with competition for vast mineral resources. The upcoming negotiations represent a critical opportunity to address these challenges and potentially halt further violence in the region.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
