DR Congo and M23 Rebels Confirm Participation in Peace Talks in Angola

The DRC and M23 rebel group have confirmed their participation in peace talks in Angola to address the escalating conflict in eastern DRC. Following initial rejections, both sides have deployed delegations to the talks. The humanitarian situation remains dire, with millions displaced and thousands killed since the conflict’s revival this year.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the M23 rebel group have confirmed their participation in peace talks scheduled in Luanda, Angola, aimed at addressing the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC. Despite initial reluctance, President Felix Tshisekedi’s government agreed to engage in direct negotiations with the M23, a group backed by Rwanda, which has gained crucial territories amid escalating violence this year.

Following a recent statement from M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka, a delegation representing the rebels has been dispatched to Luanda. The talks are expected to address the complexities of the conflict, which has seen thousands of casualties as the M23 forces seized significant cities such as Goma and Bukavu.

Angola has been attempting to mediate a ceasefire for several months and previously encountered setbacks due to Rwanda’s demands for direct dialogues with the DRC government. Notably, M23 leader Bertrand Bisimwa underscored the necessity of discussions, asserting, “Peace begins with dialogue. The sooner we talk, the sooner peace becomes a reality.”

The humanitarian implications of this conflict are severe, with over seven million individuals displaced and approximately 7,000 reported fatalities since January. The ongoing struggle involves numerous armed factions vying for dominance in the resource-rich region, further exacerbated by Rwanda’s military support for the M23 rebels, which has contributed to the longstanding instability.

In conclusion, the initiation of peace talks between the DRC and M23 rebels in Angola marks a critical moment in the effort to resolve the escalating conflict in eastern DRC. With significant humanitarian crises resulting from the violence, the success of these negotiations could pave the way for restoring stability and alleviating the suffering of millions affected by the ongoing hostilities.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com