Angola is attempting to facilitate direct talks between the DRC government and M23 rebels to foster peace in eastern DRC. President Tshisekedi maintains a firm stance against negotiating with M23. Efforts are underway to revive two conflicting peace initiatives, highlighting the complexities in the regional conflict, which has deep historical roots.
Angola is actively working to mediate direct negotiations between the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) government and the M23 rebel faction. This initiative follows a visit from DRC President Felix Tshisekedi to Luanda, which has raised optimism regarding the cessation of hostilities in eastern DRC. The ongoing conflict continues to pose a risk of escalating into a broader regional confrontation.
Despite Angola’s entreaties for dialogue, the DRC government has historically resisted engaging directly with the M23 due to their significant territorial control in North Kivu and South Kivu provinces. President Tshisekedi firmly stated his position, declaring that he would not enter negotiations with the M23 or its affiliated groups.
Tshisekedi’s spokesperson, Tina Salama, referred to Angola’s recent effort as a mediation approach, indicating that Kinshasa is monitoring the situation closely for tangible results. The Luanda Process, aimed at alleviating tensions between the DRC and Rwanda, has been stalled since a summit intended to further peace initiatives was canceled in December.
Moreover, the DRC government is signaling interest in reviving the Nairobi Process, a framework facilitated by the East African Community (EAC). However, the Nairobi initiative has also experienced setbacks, specifically with the DRC excluding the M23 from negotiations due to perceptions of foreign manipulation.
This conflict has roots in the aftermath of the 1994 Rwandan genocide, where ongoing ethnic conflicts between the Tutsi and Hutu groups continue to drive tensions. Both nations have accused each other of supporting insurgent movements to their mutual detriment. The instability has led to fears of a wider regional war, as emphasized by Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye.
Recent summits involve efforts by African leaders to merge peace processes, with key figures such as former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta leading joint initiatives. Despite Kinshasa’s call for a standardized approach to align these frameworks, differences in goals between the processes remain evident.
In summary, Angola’s initiative to mediate talks between the DRC and the M23 reflects a significant diplomatic effort to alleviate ongoing conflict and prevent regional escalation. Despite the DRC’s historic reluctance to negotiate with the M23, the renewed focus on both the Luanda and Nairobi processes illustrates the complexity of the situation and the necessity for cooperative regional strategies aimed at achieving lasting peace. The evolving engagement of African leaders underscores the urgency in resolving these tensions through unified efforts.
Original Source: www.socialnews.xyz
