Rwanda-backed M23 rebels in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo have leveraged military successes to withdraw from peace talks with the Congolese government, citing European sanctions. President Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Kagame called for a ceasefire, but uncertainties remain. Complex dynamics suggested distrust complicate multiple peace processes, making progress arduous.
The ongoing conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo is severely impacting efforts for peace negotiations between the Congolese government and the M23 rebels, who are backed by Rwanda. The M23 has claimed significant territorial gains, enabling them to demand greater concessions from the Congolese authorities while increasingly dismissing direct negotiations. Last weekend, following the capture of major cities by M23, President Felix Tshisekedi’s government agreed to discuss terms in Angola, but the rebels later withdrew from the planned talks, citing European Union sanctions against their leadership as a major obstacle.
Political analyst Tresor Kibangula asserts that the M23’s decision to retract demonstrates their unwillingness to enter negotiations without guarantees of substantial concessions. In a separate but related initiative, President Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame convened and called for a ceasefire. However, the efficacy of this meeting, which was mediated by Qatar, remains uncertain in light of M23’s recent military successes and fortifying position.
Experts indicate that M23’s military leverage is cited as the primary reason they may resist a ceasefire. Jason Stearns, a political scientist specializing in the Great Lakes region, stated that the group is likely to feel emboldened given its upper hand militarily, especially amid intensified sanctions directed at Rwanda. Despite these claims, Rwanda denies any support for the M23, asserting that its military actions are defensive against threats from Congolese militias.
The complexity of the peace process is exacerbated by multiple simultaneous initiatives, principally the Angolan-led talks initiated in 2022. Despite these efforts, distrust among involved parties remains high, notably regarding M23’s intentions and Angola’s mediation credibility. Recent attempts to organize direct negotiations were marred by logistical failures and allegations of sabotage, with reports implying Angolan government miscommunication.
As of Monday, a meeting among various African regional bodies yielded a tentative roadmap aimed at establishing a ceasefire within a month, yet skepticism prevails. An African diplomat emphasized the necessity for all parties to align their views and avoid proliferating conflicting initiatives. The complicated dynamics and distrust in this region continue to hinder any substantial progress toward a peaceful resolution.
In conclusion, the M23 rebels’ military gains have complicated peace negotiations with the Congolese government, leading to their withdrawal from talks citing impractical conditions due to EU sanctions. The involvement of multiple peace processes adds layers of distrust among the parties. While recent initiatives aim for a ceasefire, both sides demonstrate profound skepticism, highlighting the challenges that lay ahead in achieving lasting peace in Eastern Congo.
Original Source: www.straitstimes.com
