The M23 group has accused the DRC government of attempting to undermine peace talks in Angola through violent actions. This comes as tensions rise, with M23 gaining territory in eastern DRC and Rwanda severing ties with Belgium due to perceived bias. Upcoming negotiations in Luanda are crucial yet precarious amid this conflict.
The M23, a Rwanda-backed armed group, has accused the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) government of attempting to sabotage upcoming peace talks scheduled to take place in Angola. The M23’s spokesperson alleged that the Kinshasa regime has been using fighter jets and drones to bomb populated areas in the lead-up to these talks. Lawrence Kanyuka, spokesman for the M23 and the Congo River Alliance, stated that this violent escalation indicates a deliberate effort to thwart essential dialogue.
Despite the M23’s claims, these allegations have not been independently verified, and the DRC government has not issued an official response. Kanyuka expressed acknowledgment of Angola’s invitation for direct dialogue, set for Tuesday, while Angolan President Joao Lourenco had previously called for a ceasefire that went unacknowledged by the involved parties. The Congolese President, Felix Tshisekedi, has thus far refrained from participating in talks with M23, which has gained significant territorial foothold in eastern DRC this year, reportedly with Rwandan military support.
In a notable development, President Tshisekedi’s recent visit to Luanda culminated in the announcement of direct peace negotiations scheduled for Tuesday. A spokeswoman for Tshisekedi indicated that a DRC delegation would attend the meeting, although specifics about its composition or the nature of its participation in the talks were not disclosed. Following M23’s advances, major cities in eastern DRC, including Goma and Bukavu, have fallen under its control, further complicating peace efforts.
In parallel, Rwanda severed diplomatic ties with Belgium, citing perceived bias from the European nation in the ongoing conflict in the DRC. The Rwandan government accused Belgium of undermining Kigali during this crisis. Rwanda has maintained that its involvement in the DRC is defensive, claiming to face threats from ethnic Hutu forces within the country. The Rwandan foreign ministry announced that all Belgian diplomats must exit Rwanda within 48 hours, highlighting the tense dynamics in the region amid ongoing violence and political maneuvering.
The M23’s accusations against the DRC government suggest rising tensions that threaten the planned peace talks. With allegations of violence from both parties and Rwanda’s recent diplomatic fallout with Belgium, the situation remains volatile. It remains to be seen how the upcoming negotiations will unfold amidst these complexities, as both peace and regional stability hang in the balance.
Original Source: jordantimes.com
