Peace negotiations between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo have been called off after hitting a deadlock. The Angolan presidency, mediating the talks, stated that the scheduled summit would not proceed as both presidents were unable to meet. Rwanda’s insistence on direct dialogue with the M23 rebel group remains a significant sticking point amidst ongoing violence in eastern DRC.
Discussions aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) involving Rwanda have been abruptly halted. The Angolan presidency, which is mediating these talks, announced that a scheduled summit would not take place as anticipated. According to Mario Jorge, a spokesperson for the presidency, Angolan President Joao Lourenco engaged in discussions solely with DRC leader Felix Tshisekedi, while the presence of Rwandan President Paul Kagame remained uncertain. The talks encountered a deadlock primarily due to Rwanda’s insistence on direct negotiations between the DRC and the M23 rebel group, which the DRC government and the United Nations assert is receiving Rwandan support.
The situation in eastern DRC has escalated to alarming levels, with many caught in the middle of hostilities between the DRC army and M23, a group that is one among numerous armed factions in the area. Recently, accusations emerged over the killing of twelve civilians, which M23 dismissed as government propaganda. The conflict has led to a humanitarian crisis resulting in over seven million displaced individuals. Although Rwanda refutes claims of backing M23, it has acknowledged deploying troops to secure its borders amidst perceived threats from DRC military fortifications.
Further complicating the peace efforts, an agreement reached last month between the foreign ministers of both nations regarding the withdrawal of Rwandan forces has not led to a cessation of hostilities, with violations being reported. A local resident’s plea for peace underscores the urgent need for dialogue, as continuous displacements render them strangers in their own land. Aline Kasereka expressed this sentiment poignantly, reflecting the weariness of the community caught in this protracted conflict.
The ongoing conflict in the eastern DRC, particularly involving the M23 rebel group, has persisted for decades, exacerbating tensions between Rwanda and the DRC. Numerous armed groups, including M23, compete for territorial control in the mineral-rich region, leading to significant humanitarian crises affecting millions. International mediation efforts, notably by Angola as an African Union representative, aim to create a sustainable peace agreement. However, challenges arise, particularly regarding Rwanda’s alleged backing of M23 and the political implications of direct negotiations between the DRC and rebel factions.
In summary, the cessation of peace talks between Rwanda and the DRC reflects the complex and escalating nature of the conflict in the region. The deadlock over direct negotiations with M23 illustrates the differing stances of the involved parties. The humanitarian consequences remain dire, prompting urgent calls for resolution from those most affected by the conflict. Moving forward, a collaborative effort is essential to address the multifaceted issues rooted in this longstanding strife.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
