Direct peace talks between the Democratic Republic of Congo and M23 rebels are scheduled to begin in Angola on March 18. Angola aims to mediate amid rising tensions between Congo and Rwanda. Congolese officials have acknowledged the initiative without confirming their participation. The conflict has led to substantial human casualties and displacements, further complicated by regional military involvement and human rights concerns.
On March 18, direct peace talks are set to commence in Angola between the Democratic Republic of Congo and M23 rebels, as announced by Angola’s presidency. The Congolese government has acknowledged receipt of this communication but has not confirmed its participation in the talks. Angola aims to mediate a lasting ceasefire amidst rising tensions between Congo and Rwanda, which has been accused of supporting M23, a claim that Rwanda denies.
Historically, Congo has resisted holding direct talks with M23. However, the Angolan initiative marks a potential shift in this stance. Tina Salama, spokesperson for Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi, confirmed the government’s awareness of the proposal, albeit without confirming engagement in the discussions. M23 leader Bertrand Bisimwa expressed confidence in compelling Tshisekedi to the negotiating table, labeling the talks as the only civilized means to address the escalating crisis.
The ongoing situation in eastern Congo will also be discussed in a forthcoming extraordinary summit of Southern African Development Community (SADC) heads of state. This summit, to be chaired by Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa, seeks to clarify the situation regarding regional forces currently deployed in the conflict-ridden eastern region, where M23 has recently taken control of significant urban centers.
The conflict is intricately linked to historical grievances dating back to Rwanda’s 1994 genocide, compounded by competition over Congo’s wealth of mineral resources, including coltan, cobalt, and lithium. These resources are vital for global technological advancements and the green energy transition. The Congo government has reported approximately 7,000 deaths stemming from the conflict since January, while the UN estimates that at least 600,000 individuals have been displaced since November.
Human Rights Watch has raised alarms about increasing repression in M23-controlled areas, highlighting instances where activists and journalists have been threatened or even assassinated. Such tactics, previously confined to M23 territories, are being observed more broadly in North and South Kivu, further complicating the humanitarian landscape. Neighboring countries like Burundi, Uganda, and South Africa maintain military presences in eastern DRC, fueling concerns surrounding the potential escalation into a regional conflict reminiscent of the Congo wars from the late 20th century.
In conclusion, Angola’s initiative to facilitate direct peace talks between the Democratic Republic of Congo and M23 rebels represents a critical moment in the ongoing conflict. While the Congolese government has shown hesitance, the growing humanitarian crisis and the ongoing violence underscore an urgent need for resolution. The regional implications of the conflict further complicate efforts toward peace, as neighboring nations remain actively involved, raising concerns for broader instability in the region.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
