M23 rebels will send a delegation to peace talks with the DRC government in Angola, marking a potential shift in conflict resolution. The DRC government, reversing its previous stance, will also participate. The talks aim to achieve a ceasefire and mitigate tensions related to the longstanding conflict fueled by both historical and current issues in the region.
On Monday, M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, announced plans to dispatch a five-member delegation to peace talks with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) government. The discussions are set to commence in Angola’s capital, Luanda, on Tuesday, following a request from Angolan authorities, according to Lawrence Kanyuka, spokesperson for the allied AFC rebel group.
In a notable shift, the DRC government, led by President Felix Tshisekedi, will also participate in the talks, overturning its previous stance against negotiating with the M23 group. Angola has taken on a mediating role, aiming to establish a sustainable ceasefire and mitigate tensions between the DRC and Rwanda, which has allegedly been supplying arms and military support to the M23 rebels.
The conflict in eastern DRC, a consequence of the 1994 Rwandan genocide and struggles over mineral resource control, has intensified this year, with M23 capturing significant territories, including the two largest cities in east DRC. The DRC government claims that over 7,000 fatalities have occurred since January, with the UN reporting that approximately 600,000 individuals have been displaced since November due to ongoing violence.
The upcoming peace talks between M23 rebels and the DRC government in Angola represent a significant development amid ongoing conflict in eastern DRC. The participation of both parties reflects a potential shift in the longstanding hostilities, with hopes for a sustainable ceasefire. As the situation remains dire, marked by thousands of casualties and widespread displacement, these discussions could pave the way toward resolving decades-long tensions rooted in historical conflicts and territorial disputes.
Original Source: www.timeslive.co.za
