The terms of a potential ceasefire in the eastern DRC are still unclear following a summit between Presidents Tshisekedi and Kagame in Doha. The M23 group has intensified its offensive, raising concerns about a regional crisis. Qatar is facilitating negotiations with a roadmap aiming for a permanent ceasefire. Previous ceasefire attempts have failed, complicating peace efforts.
On Wednesday, the specifics of a potential ceasefire in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) remained ambiguous following a surprise summit in Doha between Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame. Recent escalations in fighting in the mineral-rich region have seen the M23 armed group, which is backed by Rwanda, seize two provincial capitals in a short period.
Despite the scheduling of peace talks in Luanda, Angola, they did not occur. However, Qatar facilitated unexpected discussions between the two leaders, mediated by Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani. A joint statement from the three parties noted their commitment to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire as previously agreed upon at an African summit.
Qatar emphasized the importance of continuing negotiations to establish durable foundations for lasting peace in the region. Congolese officials announced that the specific terms of the previously agreed upon ceasefire would be detailed shortly. Political analyst Tresor Kibangula highlighted Kinshasa’s prior reluctance to accept Qatari mediation due to concerns over its perceived favoritism towards Rwanda.
The Gulf nation has previously attempted to mediate peace efforts in the DRC and has engaged in various investment agreements with both Kinshasa and Kigali. Various projects involve financial commitments, including a billion-dollar airport project in Rwanda. Additionally, ongoing discussions will address implementing a roadmap for peace adopted during a recent ministerial meeting in Harare, aimed at establishing a permanent ceasefire within four months, potentially with UN support.
The situation is precarious, as previous ceasefires in the DRC have consistently failed. A visible alignment among the East African Community and Southern African Development Community leaders calls for immediate cessation of hostilities to avert a broader regional crisis. The M23, asserting to protect the interests of Congolese Tutsis, has dramatically increased its territorial control since January, resulting in significant casualties.
Accusations by Kinshasa claim that Kigali is backing the M23 militarily, which Rwanda denies, instead indicating a threat from armed groups linked to the 1994 genocide. Discussions between these entities last occurred in 2013.
The ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo presents complex challenges regarding the establishment of peace. While discussions between key leaders indicate a willingness to consider a ceasefire, achieving a lasting resolution will depend on the effective implementation of previously outlined agreements and the monitoring of external influences, particularly those attributed to Rwanda. The international community remains watchful as the situation unfolds.
Original Source: thesun.my
