M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, will send a delegation to peace talks in Angola with the Congolese government, marking a shift in negotiation stance. Angola seeks to mediate a ceasefire amid ongoing violence linked to the region’s historical conflicts and resource control disputes. Over 7,000 deaths and significant displacements have occurred this year due to escalating hostilities.
The M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, have announced their decision to send a five-member delegation to peace talks in Luanda, Angola, scheduled to commence on Tuesday. Lawrence Kanyuka, spokesperson for the AFC rebel alliance that encompasses M23, confirmed that the delegation would depart for the capital at the request of Angolan authorities.
In a significant policy shift, the Democratic Republic of Congo’s government, led by President Felix Tshisekedi, has decided to participate in the talks, thereby reversing its previous stance of refusing to negotiate with M23. Angola’s mediation aims to secure a sustainable ceasefire and diminish tensions between Congo and Rwanda, which has been accused by the United Nations of providing military support to the M23 group.
Rwanda defends its involvement by asserting that its forces are acting in self-defense against threats posed by the Congolese army and local militias. The ongoing conflict in eastern Congo, which has persisted for decades, stems from the aftermath of Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and competition for control over the country’s extensive mineral wealth.
This year has witnessed increased aggression from M23, which has made significant territorial gains, capturing areas it had never previously controlled, including the two largest cities in eastern Congo. The Congolese government reports that approximately 7,000 individuals have lost their lives in the conflict since January, and more than 600,000 people have been displaced from their homes as a result of the violence, according to the United Nations humanitarian affairs office.
In summary, the M23 rebels will engage in peace negotiations with the Congolese government, facilitated by Angola. This marks a pivotal shift in the government’s approach towards the rebels. The long-standing conflict has resulted in excessive casualties and a humanitarian crisis, underlining the urgency for resolution through dialogue and mediation.
Original Source: www.thestar.com.my
