The Democratic Republic of Congo is considering participating in peace talks with the M23 rebel group in Angola, amidst tensions with Rwanda. Angola aims to mediate lasting peace, while M23 demands clear commitments from Tshisekedi. The withdrawal of SADC forces adds further pressure on the Congolese government, which is criticized for its handling of the crisis as the rebels gain momentum.
The Democratic Republic of Congo is contemplating participation in peace talks with the M23 rebel group, which are scheduled to take place in Angola. This decision follows the rebels articulating specific demands to the mediation team, as per two government sources. These talks, facilitated by Angola, aim to establish a sustainable ceasefire and alleviate tensions between Congo and Rwanda, which is accused of supporting the M23, although Rwanda denies these claims.
Angola’s presidency has confirmed that discussions will commence in Luanda on Tuesday, representing Congo’s first direct negotiations with the M23 rebels. President Felix Tshisekedi has previously been resistant to engaging directly with M23, and the government has not yet officially verified its presence at the talks. “Angola’s desire to help our region find a way out of the crisis” was highlighted by Tshisekedi, who emphasized the importance of actionable outcomes from the talks.
Reports indicate that Kinshasa is taking the latest proposal from Angola seriously, with discussions on representation still underway. A government source noted, “This is a process that is beginning,” suggesting uncertainties regarding the length of negotiations and the selection of government representatives. Despite potential dialogue, the source specified that this will not absolve Kigali of its responsibilities related to the conflict. The M23 rebels have expressed support for Angola’s peace initiative, demanding a public commitment from Tshisekedi to negotiation, alongside calls for clarity on how prior resolutions would be enacted.
As these developments unfold, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) has announced the termination of its troop deployment mandate in Congo, further complicating the situation for Tshisekedi amid existing criticisms of his management of the M23 crisis. The SADC had previously deployed forces to assist Congo, primarily a cobalt and copper-producing nation, in combating rebel activity. Since January, the M23 has escalated its offensive, capturing key eastern cities, rooted in historical conflicts and battles for mineral resources.
Additionally, Alphamin Resources has temporarily ceased operations at its tin mine in eastern Congo due to the advancing threat posed by the rebels, reflecting the wider impacts of the ongoing conflict on economic activities.
In summary, the Democratic Republic of Congo is weighing its participation in anticipated peace talks with the M23 rebel group in Angola. While these negotiations represent a significant step, the framework for future discussions remains uncertain, highlighting the complexities of the situation exacerbated by the withdrawal of SADC forces and ongoing M23 advancements. The conflict’s historical context and its ties to the region’s resource wealth further complicate achieving a lasting resolution.
Original Source: www.straitstimes.com
