The M23 group’s willingness to negotiate with the DRC government aims to end ongoing violence in the region. Scheduled talks in Luanda on March 18, facilitated by Angola, may provide a path towards peace, contingent on President Tshisekedi’s commitment. The conflict has caused over 7,000 deaths this year, amid unverified claims of Rwandan military support for M23.
The M23 armed group has indicated its readiness to enter into direct negotiations with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) government, aiming to cease the ongoing violence in the eastern region of the country. This area has faced persistent unrest, characterized by ethnic tensions and violent confrontations between the M23 and Congolese military forces.
Since renewing its activities in 2021, M23 has taken control of extensive mineral-rich territories in the DRC, reportedly receiving backing from Rwanda. The Angolan government announced its intention to facilitate peace discussions scheduled for March 18 in Luanda, the nation’s capital, marking a potential turning point in the conflict.
On March 13, 2025, the M23 expressed optimism regarding the upcoming talks, viewing them as a fundamental step towards settling the ongoing strife. Nonetheless, the group has urged Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi to publicly affirm his commitment to direct negotiations, emphasizing it as a crucial condition for achieving peace.
President Tshisekedi has previously labeled the M23 as “terrorists” and had dismissed the notion of engaging in talks with the group. Nevertheless, following discussions with Angolan President Joao Lourenco, it was confirmed that the negotiations would proceed.
The conflict has intensified significantly since January 2025, resulting in the estimated loss of over 7,000 lives, although independent verification of this figure remains absent. Rwanda has denied allegations of providing military assistance to the M23; however, a UN experts’ report indicates that approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops may be present in the DRC to support the group.
In summary, the M23’s readiness to engage in negotiations represents a significant development in the ongoing conflict in the DRC. The facilitation of talks by Angola and the necessity for Congolese President Tshisekedi’s commitment could lead to a resolution of the violence that has deeply affected the region. Nevertheless, challenges remain, including Tshisekedi’s previous stance on M23 and the unresolved allegations against Rwanda regarding its involvement in the conflict.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
