The M23 group has accepted Angola’s mediation offer to negotiate with the DRC government, seeking clarifications about DRC’s involvement and the role of all stakeholders. They stressed that military solutions are ineffective for the ongoing crises and reiterated the need for a ceasefire as outlined at previous summits. Regional leaders have been appointed to facilitate peace initiatives, strengthening collective efforts for stability in Eastern DRC.
The M23 group has officially accepted Angola’s mediation offer aimed at facilitating discussions with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) government, scheduled to commence later this month. Group spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka emphasized the need for clarification regarding the DRC’s willingness to engage in talks, referring to previous statements indicating otherwise. The group specifically requested that President Felix Tshisekedi publicly affirm his commitment to direct negotiations.
Additionally, M23 has urged that the mediation team include all relevant stakeholders in their initiative, highlighting that they learned of the mediation offer through social media rather than official channels. The group also asserted that military solutions are ineffective for resolving the ongoing crises in the DRC, as stated in their announcement.
Moreover, M23 seeks clarification on the execution of resolutions from the EAC and SADC Heads of State summit held in February. This request follows a recent SADC communiqué that reaffirmed their dedication to the Luanda/Nairobi peace processes while announcing troop withdrawals from Eastern DRC. The communiqué expressed support from various international bodies for peace restoration efforts in the region.
Last month, a joint EAC/SADC summit appointed former leaders from Kenya, Nigeria, and Ethiopia to spearhead peace initiatives in Eastern DRC. The communiqué called upon all parties to observe a ceasefire, urging M23 and others to refrain from military advancements in the region in alignment with the resolutions made during the summit.
M23’s acceptance of Angola’s mediation offer marks a crucial development in the peace process with the DRC government. Their requests for clarity on negotiations and stakeholder involvement reflect their intention to engage constructively in dialogue. The emphasis on a ceasefire and the involvement of prominent former leaders underscores the regional commitment to resolving ongoing conflicts in the Eastern DRC. Positive engagement from all parties is essential for achieving lasting peace.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
