M23 has accepted Angola’s mediation offer to initiate dialogue with the DRC government, seeking clarifications on DRC’s involvement and commitments from President Tshisekedi. They emphasize the need for wider stakeholder participation in peace talks and address concerns regarding military solutions to the crisis. Recent SADC resolutions reveal ongoing support for collaborative peace efforts.
The M23 group has officially accepted Angola’s mediation offer for dialogue with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) government, set to commence later this month. Spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka emphasized the need for clarity regarding the DRC’s role in the negotiations, referencing previous claims from President Felix Tshisekedi against engaging with M23.
M23 has called for explicit commitments from President Tshisekedi to pursue direct negotiations. The group also expressed the importance of including all relevant stakeholders in the mediation discussions, highlighting their awareness of the mediation offer through social media outlets.
In their statement, M23 articulated, “AFC/M23 hereby reiterates that there is no military solution to the ongoing crisis in the DRC that can effectively address the root cause of the conflicts ravaging our country.” Furthermore, they requested details on implementing resolutions from a recent EAC and SADC summit held in Dar es Salaam on February 8.
The SADC previously reaffirmed its commitment to joint peace processes during their recent communiqué, which announced the withdrawal of troops from Eastern DRC. Additionally, the communiqué acknowledged the United Nations Security Council resolution 2773, promoting collaborative efforts to restore peace through the Luanda and Nairobi mediation frameworks.
The joint summit declared that former leaders, such as Kenya’s Uhuru Kenyatta, Nigeria’s Olusegun Obasanjo, and Ethiopia’s Hailemariam Boshe, would spearhead peace efforts in the region. The communiqué urged all involved parties to adhere to the declared ceasefire and to halt any military advancements.
In summary, M23’s acceptance of Angola’s mediation underscores its desire for meaningful dialogue with the DRC government. The group’s insistence on broad stakeholder engagement and clarification regarding the DRC’s participation reflects the complexities of the ongoing conflict. As mediation efforts progress, commitment from key leaders and adherence to ceasefire agreements will be vital in moving towards peace in the region.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
