Angola Brokers Peace Talks Between DRC and M23 Rebels Amid Rising Tensions

Angola is attempting to facilitate direct dialogue between the DRC government and the M23 rebels to ease tensions in the eastern DRC and avoid broader conflict. DRC President Tshisekedi has maintained a firm stance against negotiation with the M23 amid accusations of Rwandan support for the group. As regional processes struggle, efforts are being made to merge peace initiatives under the African Union’s oversight.

Angola is actively engaged in facilitating direct discussions between the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) government and the M23 rebel group, following a recent meeting between DRC President Felix Tshisekedi and Angolan President Joao Lourenco. This initiative aims to alleviate ongoing tensions in the eastern DRC and prevent further escalation into a broader regional conflict. The DRC has historically refrained from direct negotiations with the M23 due to its concerns about the group’s backing from Rwanda, an assertion that Rwanda vehemently denies.

In his discussions with President Lourenco, Tshisekedi expressed a firm stance against including M23 leaders in negotiations, declaring such engagement unacceptable during his presidency. His spokesperson, Tina Salama, conveyed that Kinshasa is willing to observe the progress of Angolan mediation. The Luanda Process, aimed at mitigating tensions in the region, has stalled since a summit was abruptly canceled in December, further complicating the peace efforts.

The DRC has recently indicated an interest in re-engaging with the Nairobi Process, a peace initiative led by the East African Community (EAC). This platform is intended to foster dialogue with armed groups, including the M23. However, it has encountered obstacles, and the DRC government has distanced itself from M23 participation, viewing the group as a foreign proxy.

The DRC’s conflict with M23 has historical roots linked to the aftermath of the 1994 Rwandan genocide and ongoing ethnic tensions. Accusations persist, with the DRC claiming Rwandan support for M23, while Rwanda asserts that the DRC military cooperates with elements involved in the genocide.

The persistent violence in the DRC poses a risk of escalating into a wider regional crisis. Regional leaders are prioritizing African-led solutions, though there remain disagreements regarding the Nairobi and Luanda processes. Recent discussions have led to an agreement to merge these efforts while retaining their unique aims and stakeholders, emphasizing coordination under the African Union’s oversight.

On another front, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) plans to convene an extraordinary summit to address the deteriorating security situation in the DRC, which will likely include deliberations on the future of its military presence in the region. A SADC force has been collaborating with the DRC military to combat armed insurgents in eastern DRC since December 2023.

In summary, Angola’s initiative to broker peace talks between the DRC government and the M23 rebel group highlights the ongoing challenges faced in resolving regional conflicts rooted in historical grievances. Although there is cautious optimism surrounding Angola’s mediation efforts, significant tensions persist in direct negotiations. The DRC’s approach—remaining steadfast against M23 dialogue—complicates peace processes, yet there is hope for collaborative solutions through the integration of regional frameworks and initiatives. Continued dialogue remains critical to prevent further escalation of hostilities in the region.

Original Source: www.socialnews.xyz