The DRC and M23 rebels have confirmed their participation in peace talks in Angola, aimed to address the escalating conflict in eastern DRC. This shift follows DRC’s earlier rejection of direct negotiations. The situation has led to a significant humanitarian crisis, with millions displaced and many casualties reported. Angola has been mediating efforts for months to ensure a ceasefire and dialogue between the conflicting parties.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the M23 rebel group have confirmed their participation in peace talks in Angola aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict in the eastern region. Previously, the DRC had rejected such negotiations, but a recent shift has prompted parties to engage. A delegation from the M23 has already arrived in Angola’s capital, Luanda, where discussions are set to take place.
The DRC’s delegation is also present in Luanda for the talks scheduled for Tuesday. This development comes amidst a backdrop of intense conflict that has arisen from the M23’s territorial advances since the beginning of the year, leading to a significant loss of life and a humanitarian crisis affecting millions. President Felix Tshisekedi’s spokesperson confirmed their presence in the discussions, although Tshisekedi had initially opposed direct negotiations with the M23.
Angola’s efforts towards mediating a ceasefire have been ongoing for several months, with earlier attempts to initiate talks having been canceled last year. M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka acknowledged their participation on social media, while M23 leader Bertrand Bisimwa asserted the necessity of dialogue for achieving peace, stating, “peace begins with dialogue. The sooner we talk, the sooner peace becomes a reality.”
The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant humanitarian challenges in eastern DRC, where over seven million individuals have been displaced, and approximately 7,000 casualties have been reported this year alone. M23, which is allegedly supported by Rwandan forces, seeks to control strategic areas rich in minerals, exacerbating an already complex situation that dates back to the spillover effects of Rwanda’s 1994 genocide. A commission from the UN Human Rights Council is currently investigating serious accusations of human rights violations committed by both sides in the conflict.
The confirmation of participation in peace talks by both the DRC and M23 rebels is a significant development towards addressing the longstanding conflict in eastern DRC. As Angola takes the initiative to mediate discussions, the humanitarian crisis continues to escalate, necessitating urgent attention. The complex history of this conflict and the involvement of external forces underline the need for constructive dialogue to pave the way for lasting peace.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
