M23 Accuses DRC Government of Sabotaging Peace Talks in Angola

M23 has accused the DRC government of undermining peace talks by escalating military actions. Despite a ceasefire call by Angolan President Lourenco, President Tshisekedi has not consented to meet with M23. Key areas in eastern DRC are now under M23 control, supported by Rwandan troops, highlighting growing regional tensions.

The M23 rebel group, reportedly backed by Rwanda, has accused the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) of undermining peace negotiations scheduled to take place in Angola. M23 spokesperson, Lawrence Kanyuka, expressed concerns over recent bombings by the DRC government, allegedly using fighter jets and drones in densely populated regions, asserting that this escalation demonstrates a desire to sabotage the dialogue.

Kanyuka acknowledged receipt of an invitation for direct talks with the DRC government set for Tuesday in Luanda. He indicated that Angolan President Joao Lourenco had urged a ceasefire beginning on Sunday at midnight, though there has been no response from either party to this appeal. Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi has not agreed to meet with the M23, despite the group’s significant territorial advances in eastern DRC since the start of the year.

Key areas such as Goma and Bukavu, rich in natural resources and situated near the Rwandan border, have come under M23 control amid its support from approximately 4,000 Rwandan soldiers, as reported by UN officials. Following Tshisekedi’s recent visit to Luanda, direct peace negotiations were announced, marking a potential shift in efforts toward resolving the ongoing conflict.

In summary, the M23 group has accused the DRC government of jeopardizing forthcoming peace talks by escalating military actions in populated regions. Despite a call for a ceasefire by Angolan President Joao Lourenco, tensions remain high, as President Tshisekedi has thus far declined to engage directly with the M23. The situation is further complicated by the M23’s rapid territorial gains and external military support.

Original Source: www.jacarandafm.com