The DRC is contemplating sending representatives to peace talks hosted by Angola regarding the M23 rebel group, marking its first direct negotiations. The Southern African Development Community has concluded its troop deployment, prompting concerns about ongoing tensions with Rwanda, which is accused of supporting the rebels. The situation reflects complex historical issues related to conflict and resource control in the region.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is contemplating sending representatives to peace talks in Luanda, Angola, scheduled to commence on March 18. This event would represent the DRC’s initial direct negotiations with the M23 rebel group, which is alleged to receive support from Rwanda. Two government sources provided this information to Reuters on Thursday.
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has concluded the mandate for its troop deployment, known as SAMIDRC, and is proceeding with a phased withdrawal. Angola has been actively mediating to achieve a ceasefire and mitigate tensions between the DRC and Rwanda, which has been accused of backing the Tutsi-led M23 rebels, a claim that Rwanda denies.
While President Felix Tshisekedi has previously declined direct dialogue with M23, the recent Angolan proposal is now under serious consideration by the DRC government. One source indicated that the government aims for the negotiation process to be brief, but acknowledged it could extend over time, leaving representation decisions to the head of state.
The withdrawal of the SADC troops, which were deployed to assist the DRC government against rebel forces, presents additional challenges for President Tshisekedi amid growing criticism of his response to M23’s resurgence. Rwanda’s foreign minister, Olivier Nduhungirehe, deemed the withdrawal a beneficial decision aiding peace efforts in eastern DRC.
SADC’s deployment, initiated to bolster DRC’s security in December 2023, faced scrutiny over its effectiveness against the backdrop of ongoing conflict linked to Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and the competition for DRC’s rich mineral resources. The M23 rebels have captured the eastern DRC’s two largest cities since January, exacerbating the long-standing conflict.
In summary, the DRC is deliberating participation in peace talks facilitated by Angola, seeking to address the conflict involving the M23 rebel group. Following the SADC’s troop withdrawal, tensions remain high, with Rwanda’s involvement continuing to be a contentious factor. This negotiation process, while potentially lengthy, presents an opportunity for dialogue amidst a complex backdrop of historical grievances and resource control in the region.
Original Source: www.timeslive.co.za
