M23 Announces Ceasefire Ahead of DRC-Rwanda Crisis Negotiations
M23 has declared a humanitarian ceasefire in eastern DRC as crisis talks are prepared between President Tshisekedi and President Kagame of Rwanda. The ceasefire follows recent hostilities in Goma and ongoing military operations by M23 in South Kivu. The Congolese government is accusing Rwanda of involvement in the conflict. Regional diplomatic efforts aim to negotiate peace but face complexities due to different approaches to the M23 and ongoing military tensions.
The armed group M23 announced a humanitarian ceasefire in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo effective Tuesday, coinciding with crisis discussions between Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame scheduled for Friday. In its statement, M23, which is part of the Alliance Fleuve Congo coalition, expressed its commitment to the ceasefire for humanitarian reasons and denied intentions to seize control of Bukavu or other regions, despite prior intentions to advance toward Kinshasa. Following recent military engagements in Goma, M23 has shifted focus to South Kivu where hostilities persist, prompting international concern.
The Congolese government strongly accuses Rwanda of involvement in the conflict, with Communications Minister Patrick Muyaya stating, “Who could fail to recognize that just a few days ago, he mobilized nearly a third of his army – 10,000 men – at the gates of a city full of civilians…?” Concurrently, the DRC has called for an emergency session of the UN Human Rights Council to address the escalating situation in Goma. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasized that a ceasefire is essential for peace talks, pledging continued support for Tshisekedi.
Upcoming talks are set to occur on Saturday in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, with leaders from the East African Community and the Southern African Development Community. This joint summit aims to facilitate direct negotiations amid fears of escalating regional conflict. However, divergent views between the Congolese government and the EAC regarding the negotiation processes may hamper progress. Tshisekedi has expressed reluctance to engage directly with M23 without prior conditions, particularly concerning Rwandan troops.
Kagame’s participation in the summit in Tanzania is assured, though Tshisekedi’s presence remains uncertain. Previous reports indicate Rwanda’s significant military presence in the DRC, where mineral wealth, particularly coltan and gold, fuels continued instability. While Rwanda denies military support to M23, it accuses the DRC of harboring the FDLR, a group responsible for violence in the past. Feasible diplomatic resolutions remain uncertain yet are deemed critical for achieving lasting peace in the region.
The ongoing conflict between the DRC and M23, supported by Rwandan troops, has drawn international attention due to the humanitarian implications and regional stability concerns. Multiple ceasefire attempts over the last four years have failed, highlighting the complexity of diplomatic relations and the historical context of violence linked to ethnic tensions and resource exploitation in eastern DRC. The upcoming dialogue aims to address not only the immediate military confrontations but also the broader issues surrounding sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the humanitarian needs of the affected populations.
In summary, the M23’s declaration of a ceasefire aligns with crucial diplomatic talks set between the DRC and Rwanda amidst ongoing regional tensions. The situation remains delicate, with accusations flying between governments and international observers watching closely. While the potential for peaceful negotiations exists, achieving a lasting resolution will require overcoming significant historical grievances and operational challenges within the conflicting parties.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
