The Democratic Republic of the Congo and M23 rebels will hold direct peace talks on March 18 in Luanda, facilitated by Angola. The conflict has led to thousands of fatalities and mass displacement, with at least 7,000 reported dead since January. M23 leader has indicated that the government was compelled to negotiate, highlighting the urgent need for resolution amidst regional tensions.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels are set to commence direct peace negotiations on March 18, as announced by the Angolan mediator. A spokesperson for DRC President Felix Tshisekedi revealed that an invitation from Angola had been received regarding the discussions. The talks will occur in Luanda with the aim of addressing the ongoing conflict.
Angola has historically played a mediating role in the eastern DRC crisis, which intensified in January when M23 captured the significant city of Goma and later Bukavu. Despite allegations of support for M23, Rwanda denies backing the rebel group, which emerged from the fallout of the 1994 Rwandan genocide and the struggle over DRC’s extensive mineral wealth.
During a visit to Angola on Tuesday, President Tshisekedi discussed the potential for negotiations. His spokesperson confirmed receipt of the invitation, yet it remains unclear if the government will officially partake in the talks. Meanwhile, M23 leader Bertrand Bisimwa indicated on social media that the conflict has compelled Tshisekedi to negotiate, portraying the talks as a necessary step towards a peaceful resolution.
The toll of this conflict has been severe, with government reports citing at least 7,000 fatalities since January. Furthermore, the United Nations refugee agency reported that approximately 80,000 individuals have fled to neighboring countries, with 61,000 seeking refuge in Burundi alone. The ongoing struggle involves around 100 armed groups competing for control over the region’s substantial mineral resources.
The presence of troops from neighboring countries such as South Africa, Burundi, and Uganda in eastern Congo raises concerns over potential escalation into a wider regional conflict, reminiscent of the catastrophic Congo wars of the late 20th century.
The upcoming peace talks between the DRC government and M23 rebels, facilitated by Angola, represent a critical opportunity to address the ongoing conflict and alleviate humanitarian crises in the region. With the backdrop of significant casualties and large-scale displacement, these negotiations could be pivotal in achieving a more stable and peaceful environment in eastern Congo. However, the involvement of foreign troops and numerous armed groups complicates the prospects for lasting peace.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
