M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, will send a delegation to peace talks in Angola with the Democratic Republic of Congo after a government reversal on negotiations. Angola aims to mediate a ceasefire amid ongoing conflict, which has resulted in thousands of deaths and widespread displacement. The talks signify a potential shift toward resolving long-standing tensions in the region.
The M23 rebels, reportedly backed by Rwanda, have declared their intention to participate in peace talks with the Democratic Republic of Congo’s government, set to begin on Tuesday in Angola’s capital, Luanda. As stated by Lawrence Kanyuka, a spokesperson for the AFC rebel alliance, a five-member delegation is prepared to depart for discussions at the request of Angolan officials.
In a notable shift, the Congolese government, led by President Felix Tshisekedi, announced that it would also send representatives to the talks. This decision contrasts with its previous stance of not negotiating with the M23 rebels.
Angola’s mediation efforts aim to establish a durable ceasefire and reduce tensions between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda. Allegations persist that Rwanda has been supplying arms and troops to the Tutsi-led M23 group. The Rwandan government maintains that its military presence is a defensive measure against threats from the Congolese army and local militias.
The ongoing conflict, which has affected eastern Congo for decades, stems from historical grievances linked to Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and the competition for the region’s mineral wealth. This year has seen a significant escalation, with M23 capturing territories that were previously out of their control, including major cities in eastern Congo.
The conflict has resulted in a severe humanitarian crisis, with the Congolese government reporting over 7,000 deaths since January and the United Nations estimating that at least 600,000 individuals have been displaced since November.
The upcoming peace talks in Angola represent a critical juncture for the Democratic Republic of Congo and M23 rebels. Both parties are signaling a willingness to engage in dialogue, potentially paving the way for alleviating the protracted conflict and humanitarian crises in the region. However, lasting solutions will depend on reducing tensions with Rwanda and addressing the underlying issues driving the conflict.
Original Source: theprint.in
