The Democratic Republic of Congo may send representatives to peace talks with M23 rebels in Angola, as the group outlines demands for negotiations. Angola aims to mediate a ceasefire amid tensions with Rwanda, which allegedly supports M23. The Southern African Development Community is withdrawing its troops in Congo, heightening concerns for President Tshisekedi’s administration.
The Democratic Republic of Congo is contemplating the possibility of sending representatives to upcoming peace talks with the M23 rebel group, which are scheduled to take place in Angola next week. This decision follows M23’s expression of demands to the mediation team managing the conflict, with Angola’s efforts aimed at fostering a lasting ceasefire and mitigating tension between Congo and Rwanda, which is accused of supporting the rebels, although Rwanda denies such claims.
Angola’s presidency recently announced that direct negotiations between Congo and the M23 group are set to commence in Luanda on Tuesday. This initiative would be Congo’s inaugural direct discussions with the M23. Despite President Felix Tshisekedi’s previous rejection of the notion of direct engagement with the rebels, the government has not yet made an official statement regarding its participation in these talks, which President Tshisekedi described as a reflection of Angola’s commitment to resolving the regional crisis.
Sources within the government indicated that Congo is seriously considering the latest proposal from Angola. The ongoing discussions are anticipated to be complex, with Kinshasa aiming for brevity, while recognizing that prolonged negotiations may be necessary. It is ultimately up to the head of state to appoint representatives for the government. One source also emphasized that engaging in direct negotiations with M23 should not absolve Rwanda of its responsibilities in the matter.
M23 has expressed its support for Angola’s mediation efforts but has urged President Tshisekedi to publicly reaffirm his dedication to direct negotiations. Furthermore, they have articulated demands for establishing a mediation team and clarifying the implementation of resolutions from a summit involving Eastern and Southern African blocs held last month. A statement from M23 articulated that, “Only direct negotiations can pave the way for a lasting solution to the ongoing crisis.”
In related developments, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) has announced the termination of its military support in Congo, known as SAMIDRC, and a phased withdrawal of troops. This could further complicate President Tshisekedi’s position, as his governance has faced scrutiny regarding his approach to the recent resurgence of M23. The SADC initiative was launched in December 2022 to support the Congolese government in combating various rebel factions within the region.
As the situation evolves, it has been noted that the M23 rebels have taken control of eastern Congo’s two largest cities since January, intensifying a long-standing conflict that has historical ties to Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and ongoing struggles for control of the region’s extensive mineral wealth. Meanwhile, Alphamin Resources has announced the halting of operations at its tin mine in eastern Congo due to the advancing rebel threat.
The Democratic Republic of Congo is contemplating participation in peace talks with the M23 rebel group, hosted by Angola, amidst increasing tensions and demands from the rebels for direct negotiations. The Southern African Development Community’s withdrawal of support further complicates the situation. The outcome of these talks could be pivotal in finding a resolution to the ongoing crisis, which is deeply rooted in historical grievances and the struggle for mineral resources in the region.
Original Source: gazette.com
