M23 Rebels to Engage in Direct Peace Talks with DRC Government in Angola
The M23 rebels are set to engage in direct peace talks with the DRC government in Angola on March 18, following an invitation from Angolan President João Lourenço. This marks the first dialogue since the conflict began in 2021. The talks aim to address allegations against the DRC government and the ongoing violence affecting Congolese Tutsi populations.
The M23 rebels, affiliated with the Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC), have announced their intention to send a five-member delegation to Luanda, Angola for direct negotiations with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) government. The delegation is scheduled to depart on March 17 ahead of the talks on March 18. This development follows Angolan President João Lourenço’s announcement of peace discussions during a prior meeting with DRC President Félix Tshisekedi.
On March 13, M23 political leader Bertrand Bisimwa received a formal invitation for these discussions from President Lourenço. Reports indicate that the Congolese delegation will be led by Deputy Prime Minister Jean-Pierre Bemba. These negotiations will represent the first direct talks between the M23 rebels and the Congolese government since the onset of the conflict in November 2021.
This upcoming meeting signifies a critical move in the conflict, particularly as President Tshisekedi had been reluctant to engage directly with the M23. Notably, M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka expressed appreciation for President Lourenço’s efforts, stating, “The AFC/M23 reiterates its deep gratitude to President João Lourenço of the Republic of Angola for his tireless efforts towards a peaceful resolution of the ongoing conflict in the DRC.”
M23 has accused the DRC government of backing militias responsible for ethnic cleansing against Congolese Tutsi, including the FDLR militia, which operates alongside the Congolese army. International and regional calls for dialogue have intensified following the rebels’ seizure of key cities in eastern DRC early this year, as they advocate for the protection of Congolese Tutsi and address longstanding issues of corruption and governance.
After nearly a decade of dormancy, the M23 resumed hostilities in 2021, capturing Goma and Bukavu in January and February, respectively. President Lourenço has mediated the Luanda Peace Process since mid-2022; however, efforts to foster improved relationships between Rwanda and the DRC faltered in December 2024 after the Congolese government declined to sign a pivotal agreement for negotiations with M23.
In conclusion, the M23 rebels’ decision to engage in direct talks with the DRC government in Luanda marks a pivotal moment in addressing the longstanding conflict. This negotiation reflects a significant shift in the approach of President Tshisekedi’s government towards the M23, previously avoided. Regional support, particularly from Angola, highlights the importance of collaborative efforts for seeking a peaceful resolution in the eastern DRC.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw
