Residents of Goma are frustrated by the M23’s boycott of peace talks led by Angola, viewing it as a detrimental response to European sanctions. Many locals had hoped the talks would offer a pathway to peace following recent turmoil. Civil society groups are demanding inclusion in negotiations, emphasizing the need for a multi-stakeholder approach to address the complex issues in the region. The Congolese delegation is in Luanda for discussions, awaiting the response from Angola regarding the boycott.
Residents of Goma have expressed significant distress regarding the M23 armed group’s decision to boycott peace talks organized by Angola. Local media reports reveal that many individuals in Goma perceive this decision as exacerbating their already dire situation, particularly after experiencing displacement due to the rebel group’s takeover of the city last month. The talks were viewed as a beacon of hope for restoring peace in the region, and the refusal to participate has left many feeling despondent.
The M23 group rejected participation in the peace discussions, citing European sanctions imposed on some of its members as the primary reason. This decision was announced just prior to the anticipated negotiations. Lawrence Kanyuka, the spokesperson for M23, expressed regrets regarding the role of international institutions in complicating their dialogue, stating that sanctions have hindered the potential success of peace initiatives.
Local residents articulated their disappointment regarding the M23’s stance, emphasizing that European sanctions should not prevent constructive engagement with the Congolese state. “This is a great disappointment. We hope that those leading these talks will do everything possible to bring the M23 back to the negotiating table,” said a local reporting entity. Many believe that it is crucial for the M23, claiming to represent Congolese interests, to engage in these negotiations for the future of the nation.
In light of the failed talks, civil society organizations are advocating for their inclusion in direct discussions between the M23 and the government. Danny Singoma, the executive secretary of the Network for the Promotion of Democracy and Economic and Social Rights, highlighted the multifaceted nature of the security crisis in Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. He indicated that the crisis extends beyond M23 issues, affecting various regions and calling for comprehensive dialogue involving various stakeholders.
The ongoing conflict in Goma has prompted civil society to assert that leaving the conflicting parties to determine the future of the country is unwise. Therefore, they recommended that varied social and political entities should collaborate with the Congolese government and M23 to devise effective resolutions. Meanwhile, a government delegation arrived in Luanda to participate in the negotiations, awaiting a response from Angola regarding the M23’s boycott.
The refusal of the M23 to join Angola-led peace talks has stirred frustration and confusion among Goma residents, who viewed the discussions as critical for restoring stability. Local voices emphasize that sanctions should not obstruct the dialogue necessary for resolution. Civil society groups are insisting on their involvement in future negotiations, given the complexity of the crisis affecting not just M23 but the broader region of Eastern DRC. This reflects a collective call for a more inclusive approach to addressing the ongoing conflict.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
