The DRC and M23 rebel group have confirmed their participation in peace talks in Angola aimed at resolving the conflict in eastern DRC. The conflict, which has escalated in recent months, has resulted in significant humanitarian crises, including millions displaced and thousands of deaths. The talks represent a breakthrough after previous refusals for direct negotiation, with both parties expressing the need for dialogue to achieve peace.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the M23 rebel group have confirmed their participation in upcoming peace talks in Angola, aiming to address the escalating conflict in eastern DRC. A spokesperson for the M23 announced on Monday that a delegation is en route to Luanda, Angola’s capital. The M23 has gained control over strategic areas in the DRC’s mineral-rich eastern region since the onset of a major offensive earlier this year, leading to significant casualties.
A representative from the DRC government is also in Luanda for the peace discussions scheduled for Tuesday. President Felix Tshisekedi had previously resisted direct negotiations with the M23 regarding the longstanding conflict. However, upon new developments, a delegation was dispatched to engage in talks.
M23 issued a statement through spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka, confirming their commitment to participate in the negotiations. Angola has been actively seeking to mediate a ceasefire, but previous attempts at peace talks were thwarted by Rwanda’s insistence on direct dialogue, which the DRC had rejected. It was only last week that Angola announced it would host direct negotiations, a significant step forward in the peace process.
M23 leader Bertrand Bisimwa expressed confidence, stating that their military actions compelled President Tshisekedi to engage in talks, emphasizing that “peace begins with dialogue. The sooner we talk, the sooner peace becomes a reality.” The conflict intensified earlier this year as M23 seized key cities like Goma and Bukavu, aggravating an already dire humanitarian situation.
Over seven million people have been displaced due to the ongoing conflict, with approximately 7,000 reported deaths this year alone. The M23, estimated to have the backing of 4,000 Rwandan soldiers, has previously indicated ambitions to advance towards the DRC capital, Kinshasa, while Rwanda claims it is acting in self-defense against hostile forces. The conflict’s roots can be traced back to historical tensions stemming from the Rwandan genocide and competition for control over vast mineral resources.
Additionally, the UN Human Rights Council has initiated an investigation into reported atrocities, including incidents of rape and summary executions by both parties involved in the conflict.
In conclusion, the confirmation of participation from both the DRC government and M23 rebels in peace talks hosted by Angola signifies a crucial opportunity to address the longstanding conflict in eastern DRC. The discussions aim to mitigate a humanitarian crisis that has caused extensive displacement and loss of life. Moving forward, successful dialogue could potentially pave the way for lasting peace and stability in the region.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
