M23 Groups Expresses Readiness for Negotiations with Congolese Government
The M23 group has agreed to negotiate with the Congolese government to address the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC, with peace talks facilitated by Angola starting on March 18, 2025. Despite President Tshisekedi’s past refusals to engage with M23, discussions are set to proceed. The conflict has resulted in heavy casualties, and concerns regarding Rwanda’s involvement have been raised.
The M23 armed group has indicated its readiness to pursue direct negotiations with the Congolese government to mitigate the ongoing conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This conflict has persisted for years and is characterized by violence and ethnic tensions, exacerbated by the M23’s resurgence in 2021, during which they have seized control of vast areas known for mineral resources, reportedly with assistance from Rwanda.
Angola has announced its role as a facilitator for peace talks, with negotiations scheduled to commence on March 18 in Luanda, the capital of Angola. On March 13, 2025, the M23 issued a statement expressing optimism about this development, viewing it as a crucial move toward resolving the conflict.
However, the M23 voiced concerns about the need for Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi to openly commit to entering negotiations, emphasizing this as a vital condition for achieving peace. Despite their calls, Tshisekedi has previously rebuffed the notion of dialogue with M23, categorizing them as “terrorists.” Nonetheless, following discussions with Tshisekedi, Angolan President Joao Lourenco affirmed that the talks would proceed.
Since the beginning of 2025, the M23 has achieved significant gains against the Congolese army, resulting in over 7,000 fatalities, although this number has not been independently corroborated. Meanwhile, Rwanda has denied any military backing for M23; however, reports from UN experts suggest the presence of roughly 4,000 Rwandan troops in the DRC assisting the group.
The willingness of the M23 group to engage in negotiations with the Congolese government represents a pivotal development in addressing the prolonged conflict in eastern DRC. Meanwhile, the facilitation of talks by Angola may provide an avenue toward resolution, despite past reluctance from President Tshisekedi. As the conflict continues to escalate, with significant casualties reported, the role of external influences such as alleged support from Rwanda remains a critical factor in the situation.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
