The M23 movement has accused the DRC government of attempting to sabotage peace talks scheduled in Angola, citing recent military strikes as evidence of hostility. A ceasefire was called for by Angolan leaders, yet responses remain elusive. In the background, Rwanda has severed ties with Belgium over allegations of interference in the DRC conflict, indicating rising tensions in the region.
On March 17, 2025, the M23 armed group, supported by Rwanda, accused the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) government of sabotaging proposed peace talks scheduled to be held in Angola. The M23 spokesman, Lawrence Kanyuka, expressed concerns over recent bombings in populated areas, asserting that these acts demonstrated the intentions of the Kinshasa regime to disrupt the dialogue efforts. According to Kanyuka’s statement on X, this escalation suggests a deliberate attempt to impede the peace process.
Kanyuka acknowledged the invitation for direct dialogue from Angola, set to commence on Tuesday in Luanda. Angolan President Joao Lourenco had previously called for a ceasefire starting at midnight, yet there has been no response from the involved parties. DRC President Felix Tshisekedi has remained reluctant to engage in discussions with the M23, which has significantly expanded its territory in eastern DRC, aided by Rwandan military support.
Following Tshisekedi’s recent visit to Luanda, announcements affirmed that peace negotiations would indeed begin on Tuesday. Spokeswoman Tina Salama confirmed that a DRC delegation would proceed to Luanda as per the mediator’s invitation, though specifics regarding the delegation’s composition or the nature of the talks were not disclosed. In early 2025, eastern cities Goma and Bukavu, rich in resources and adjacent to Rwanda, had fallen under M23 control, with UN experts estimating the presence of around 4,000 Rwandan soldiers supporting the group.
Moreover, the Rwandan government announced on March 17 that it had severed diplomatic relations with Belgium, accusing the nation of exacerbating the conflict in the DRC. Rwanda’s foreign ministry declared that Belgium had taken sides in the regional tensions and aimed to destabilize both Rwanda and the surrounding area. Consequently, all Belgian diplomats in Rwanda were given 48 hours to exit the country, a move highlighting Rwanda’s commitment to preserving its national interests amid ongoing conflict.
The M23’s accusations against the DRC government underscore escalating tensions in the region, as both sides prepare for potential peace talks facilitated by Angola. While the M23 seeks to address its grievances through negotiation, the DRC’s military actions challenge the prospect for dialogue. In parallel, Rwanda’s diplomatic rupture with Belgium adds further complexity to an already volatile situation, highlighting the intricacies of regional politics and their impact on peace efforts.
Original Source: www.jordantimes.com
