M23 Accuses DRC Government of Sabotaging Peace Talks in Angola

The M23 movement has accused the DRC government of sabotaging peace talks set for Angola by escalating military actions. A ceasefire has been called by Angola, yet DRC President Tshisekedi remains hesitant to participate. Separately, Rwanda has severed ties with Belgium, accusing it of undermining Kigali in the ongoing DRC conflict.

The M23 movement has accused the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) of attempting to undermine peace negotiations set to occur in Angola. M23 representatives have alleged that the DRC has escalated violence in recent days by deploying fighter jets and drones against densely populated areas. Lawrence Kanyuka, a spokesman for M23, expressed that these actions reveal the Kinshasa regime’s intention to sabotage dialogue, stating, “This deadly escalation… demonstrates the Kinshasa regime’s intent to sabotage the long-awaited dialogue.”

Kanyuka acknowledged the invitation from Angola for direct dialogue with the DRC government, scheduled for Tuesday in Luanda. Angolan President Joao Lourenco has called for a ceasefire commencing from Sunday at midnight; however, there has been no acknowledgment of this from either party. President Felix Tshisekedi of the DRC has so far shown reluctance to engage with the M23, which has gained considerable ground in eastern DRC, reportedly with Rwandan support.

Following a recent visit by President Tshisekedi to Luanda, it was announced that direct peace negotiations would commence this week. The composition and direct engagement of the Congolese delegation remain unspecified, as Tina Salama, Tshisekedi’s spokesperson, confirmed that the delegation would attend the talks in Luanda. The situation in eastern DRC is critical, with the cities of Goma and Bukavu now under M23 control since January, alongside claims of Rwandan military involvement.

In a separate development, Rwanda has severed diplomatic relations with Belgium, accusing it of undermining Kigali during the ongoing conflict in the DRC. The Rwandan government maintained that the decision to cut ties reflects its commitment to national interests, denouncing Belgium for allegedly siding against Rwanda in the regional conflict. The statement noted that all Belgian diplomats must exit Rwanda within 48 hours as a consequence of this decision.

The M23 group has formally accused the DRC government of obstructing peace efforts, alleging military aggression against civilian populations. The upcoming peace talks in Angola aim to resolve ongoing conflicts as the M23 maintains significant territorial control with suspected Rwandan involvement. Furthermore, Rwanda’s diplomatic rift with Belgium highlights the complexities surrounding foreign relations in the context of the DRC conflict.

Original Source: www.jordantimes.com