DR Congo Government Rejects Direct Talks with M23 Amid Rising Pressure

The Democratic Republic of Congo is firm in refusing direct talks with the M23 rebel group, opting instead to negotiate with Rwanda, which is accused of supporting the rebellion. The conflict has led to significant casualties and displacements, with international pressure mounting on Rwanda to withdraw its troops. Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka outlines the ongoing struggle for territorial integrity and sovereignty amidst calls for peace negotiations.

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) remains resolute in its decision to forgo direct dialogue with the M23 rebel group, amidst rising international calls for inclusivity in addressing the ongoing conflict. DR Congo Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka articulated the government’s preference to negotiate with Rwanda, which is accused of supporting the M23 rebels, as the conflict has intensified with significant casualties and displacement of civilians.

The ongoing violence has claimed over 8,500 lives since January, with numerous individuals forcibly displaced. Prime Minister Tuluka highlighted Rwanda’s role, citing a UN report that indicated the presence of Rwandan troops fighting alongside M23 rebels in DR Congo. She firmly stated, “The fact remains that the aggressor of the territorial integrity and of the sovereignty of the Democratic Republic of Congo is Rwanda.”

Attempts at mediation, including talks brokered by Angola, found themselves at a stalemate last December when Rwanda insisted that DR Congo engage directly with the M23. Since then, the M23 has rapidly advanced in DR Congo, seizing control of key cities such as Goma and Bukavu at the start of the year. Regional leaders, amidst ongoing efforts, have called for a ceasefire and the withdrawal of foreign armed forces.

Rwandan President Paul Kagame remained noncommittal regarding the presence of Rwandan troops in DR Congo, contributing to the complex dynamic facing the region. Pressure is mounting on Rwanda to remove its military presence from Congolese territory, with Prime Minister Tuluka supporting US sanctions against Rwandan officials for their involvement, which Rwanda has dismissed as ineffective.

The European Commission has responded by suspending defense consultations with Rwanda and reviewing previous agreements affecting resource exploitation. The Congolese government accuses Rwanda of illegally extracting minerals, a claim Rwanda refutes. Additionally, the UK has signaled its intent to halt aid to Rwanda unless it engages constructively in negotiations.

Prime Minister Tuluka asserted that the path to resolution lies in the withdrawal of Rwandan troops and cessation of M23 attacks. She emphasized: “Ensure that Rwandan troops withdraw from Congolese territory and that their M23 stop killing the Congolese populations,” indicating a clear stance on the prerequisites for peace.

In summary, the Democratic Republic of Congo’s government persists in rejecting direct discussions with the M23, preferring to negotiate with Rwanda over the rebels’ support. Casualties and displacement in the ongoing conflict remain severe, and international pressure on Rwanda is intensifying as it continues its military involvement. DR Congo’s leaders stress the urgency of troop withdrawal from its territory to achieve lasting peace.

Original Source: www.bbc.com