Congo M23 Rebels Set to Attend Peace Talks in Angola

M23 rebels will send a delegation to peace talks with the DRC government in Angola, reversing DRC’s previous position of no negotiation. The conflict has roots in Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and mineral resource control, with significant casualties and displacement reported.

On Monday, the M23 rebels, purportedly backed by Rwanda, announced their decision to send a five-member delegation to participate in peace talks with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) government in Luanda, Angola, set to commence on Tuesday. Lawrence Kanyuka, a spokesperson for the Alliance des Forces Démocratiques (AFC) noted that the delegation will depart for Angola at the behest of Angolan authorities.
In a significant shift, the DRC government, led by President Felix Tshisekedi, has also indicated its intention to send representatives to the dialogue, reversing its previous stance of refusing to negotiate with the M23 rebels. Angola’s role as a mediator aims to establish a lasting ceasefire and alleviate tensions between the DRC and neighboring Rwanda, which has been accused by the United Nations and other entities of providing military support to the M23 group.
Rwanda contends that its military actions are defensive, aimed at protecting itself against the Congolese army and various militias perceived as hostile. This conflict has deep roots, stemming from the aftereffects of Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and the ongoing fight for control over the DRC’s abundant mineral resources. This year, hostilities escalated as M23 reclaimed territories, including major urban centers in Eastern Congo.
According to government sources, over 7,000 casualties have been reported due to the fighting since January. Furthermore, the United Nations humanitarian affairs office indicates that approximately 600,000 individuals have been displaced because of the ongoing violence since November of the previous year.

The M23 rebels are set to engage in peace talks with the DRC government in Angola, following a request from Angolan authorities. This comes amidst escalating conflict and changing diplomatic stances from the DRC. With the aim of achieving a ceasefire and addressing longstanding tensions, these talks are crucial for the stability of the region, particularly in light of the extensive humanitarian crisis stemming from the ongoing violence.

Original Source: www.usnews.com