The M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, will engage in peace talks in Angola with the Congolese government, which has reversed its prior refusal to negotiate. These talks aim to foster a ceasefire and address the ongoing conflict’s humanitarian crisis, which has escalated this year, resulting in thousands of deaths and significant displacement.
On Monday, Rwandan-supported M23 rebels announced their plans to participate in peace talks with the Democratic Republic of Congo’s government, set to commence on Tuesday in Angola’s capital, Luanda. Lawrence Kanyuka, spokesperson for the AFC rebel alliance, reported that a five-member delegation would depart for discussions upon the request of Angolan officials.
President Felix Tshisekedi’s office confirmed that Kinshasa would also send representatives to the talks, marking a significant shift from the government’s previous stance of not negotiating with the rebel group. The Angolan government has been actively mediating efforts to establish a lasting ceasefire and mitigate tensions between the Democratic Republic of Congo and neighboring Rwanda.
The conflict has historical roots stemming from the fallout of Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and competition over Congo’s extensive mineral riches. The situation intensified recently, with M23 gaining control over strategic areas, including the two largest cities in eastern Congo, which it had not held before. According to the Congolese government, more than 7,000 individuals have perished in the conflict since January, with the U.N. reporting at least 600,000 people displaced since November.
The upcoming peace talks in Angola represent a pivotal opportunity for dialogue between the M23 rebels and the Democratic Republic of Congo’s government. With pressures from both internal and external stakeholders, including the ongoing conflict’s humanitarian toll, these discussions may assist in addressing long-standing issues related to territorial control and regional stability.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
