Congo Considers Peace Talks with M23 Rebels as Angola Mediates
The Democratic Republic of Congo is considering attending peace talks with the M23 rebels in Angola next week. Angola aims to mediate a ceasefire amid tensions with Rwanda, which allegedly supports the rebels. While Congo’s participation is not confirmed, the M23’s demands and the withdrawal of SADC troops contribute to the complex situation. Direct negotiations are seen as vital for lasting resolutions.
The Democratic Republic of Congo is contemplating sending delegates to peace negotiations with the M23 rebel group, which are scheduled to be hosted by Angola next week. According to two sources, the rebels have outlined their demands to the mediation team. Angola’s efforts aim to establish a lasting ceasefire and resolve the tensions between Congo and Rwanda, which has been accused of supporting the M23. Rwanda denies these allegations.
Angola’s presidency announced that direct talks between Congo and M23 are set to commence in Luanda on Tuesday, marking Congo’s inaugural direct negotiations with the rebel group. While President Felix Tshisekedi has previously dismissed the idea of such discussions, the government has not yet publicly confirmed its participation. Tshisekedi expressed Angola’s intention to assist in resolving the regional crisis through a posting on X, emphasizing the necessity for immediate and practical action based on any decisions made at the talks.
Two government sources revealed to Reuters that the latest proposals from Angola are under serious consideration. “Kinshasa wants it to be short but it could be long, and it will be up to the head of state to decide on the people who will represent the government side,” one source disclosed. Another source added that while there may be direct contact with M23, the responsibility of Kigali remains untouched.
The M23 rebels have expressed their support for Angola’s initiative, requesting President Tshisekedi to publicly demonstrate his willingness to negotiate directly with them. Additionally, the rebels have called for a mediation team and clarity on the implementation of resolutions agreed upon at a prior summit of Eastern and Southern African blocs. They stated, “Only direct negotiations can pave the way for a lasting solution to the ongoing crisis.”
The situation has further complicated as the Southern African Development Community (SADC) has announced the termination of its troop deployment mandate in Congo, indicating a phased withdrawal. This development could pose a challenge for Tshisekedi, who has faced scrutiny regarding his management of the M23 situation. SADC had previously deployed troops in December 2023 to assist Congo’s government but indicated a need to reassess their mission status in light of ongoing hostilities.
As the M23 rebels continue their advances, they have taken control of the two largest cities in Eastern Congo since January, escalating a protracted conflict that stems from the historical spillover of Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and the ongoing struggle for control over Congo’s mineral resources. Recently, the situation has affected mining operations, with Alphamin Resources announcing a temporary halt to its tin mine operations in Eastern Congo due to the advancing rebels.
In summary, the Democratic Republic of Congo is weighing the option to engage in peace talks with the M23 rebels, with upcoming negotiations hosted by Angola. While President Tshisekedi has not confirmed participation, requests from the rebels underline the necessity for direct dialogue to resolve the ongoing crisis. As regional dynamics shift, the withdrawal of SADC troops further complicates the situation for the Congolese government amid escalating hostilities. Effective mediation and immediate action will be crucial moving forward.
Original Source: www.straitstimes.com
