M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, will participate in peace talks in Angola, alongside the Congolese government, reversing previous refusals to negotiate. Angola aims to mediate a ceasefire amid escalating violence and humanitarian crises linked to the conflict, which has historical roots in Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and the battle for mineral resources.
On Monday, M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, announced their intention to send a five-member delegation to peace talks in Luanda, Angola. These discussions, which are set to commence on Tuesday, come at the request of Angolan officials, according to Lawrence Kanyuka, spokesperson for the AFC rebel alliance, which includes M23. This decision signifies an important step towards dialogue after the Democratic Republic of Congo’s government, led by President Felix Tshisekedi, previously opposed negotiations with the rebel group.
President Tshisekedi’s administration declared their commitment to send representatives to the peace talks, departing from their earlier stance against negotiations. Angola has taken on the role of mediator, striving to establish a sustainable ceasefire and alleviate tensions between the Democratic Republic of Congo and neighboring Rwanda. The United Nations and various observers have indicated that Rwanda has been involved by supplying arms and deploying soldiers to support the Tutsi-led M23 rebel group.
Rwanda claims its military presence is a defensive response to threats posed by the Congolese army and militias perceived as hostile. The ongoing conflict, which has plagued eastern Congo for decades, is deeply rooted in the consequences of Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and the fierce competition for the country’s rich mineral resources. Notably, this conflict has intensified in recent months, with M23 gaining control over territories it had never controlled before, including strategically significant cities in eastern Congo.
Since January, the Congolese government has reported that the fighting has resulted in over 7,000 fatalities and has led to the displacement of approximately 600,000 individuals since November, according to the U.N. humanitarian affairs office.
The announcement of M23’s attendance at the Angola peace talks marks a significant potential turning point in the ongoing conflict between the group and the Democratic Republic of Congo. With support from Rwanda, M23’s increased territorial gains this year underscore the urgency for dialogue and resolution. The humanitarian impact continues to escalate, emphasizing the need for sustained efforts toward a ceasefire and reconciliation in the region.
Original Source: www.thestar.com.my
