DRC President Félix Tshisekedi has agreed to direct negotiations with the M23 rebel group, facilitated by Angolan President João Lourenço. Angola will mediate to establish contact with M23 to promote peace talks, while the DRC government emphasizes its commitment to existing diplomatic processes. This marks a notable shift in Tshisekedi’s approach, moving from military strategies to dialogue amid increasing regional and international pressure for de-escalation.
In a pivotal diplomatic development, President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has agreed to engage in direct negotiations with the M23 rebel group, following a meeting in Luanda with Angolan President João Lourenço. Angola will mediate by initiating contact with M23 to facilitate discussions aimed at achieving peace.
An official communiqué from Angola confirmed the mediation effort, stating, “Following His Excellency Félix Tshisekedi’s brief working visit to Luanda, the Angolan side, as mediator in the conflict affecting the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, will establish contacts with the M23, so that delegations from the DRC and the M23 carry out direct negotiations in Luanda in the coming days, with a view to negotiating definitive peace in that brother country.”
The DRC’s presidential spokesperson, Tina Salama, cautiously welcomed this initiative while reaffirming the importance of existing diplomatic frameworks. She noted, “We take note and wait to see the implementation of this approach by the Angolan mediation. We also recall that there is a pre-established framework which is the Nairobi process, and we reaffirm our commitment to Resolution 2773.” This framework promotes peace talks between the DRC and armed groups.
The Nairobi Process is spearheaded by the East African Community (EAC), while UN Security Council Resolution 2773 calls for an immediate ceasefire and withdrawal of M23 from occupied territories. Tshisekedi’s shift towards direct negotiations represents a change from his previous stance focused on military solutions against the rebels.
The M23 has captured vital areas such as Goma and Bukavu, advocating for dialogue as they assert they represent the interests of Congolese Tutsis. Tshisekedi’s agreement underscores growing regional and international pressure for de-escalation. The EU, US, and UK have urged for the cessation of M23’s territorial expansion and called for Rwanda to withdraw support for the rebels.
Angola’s mediation is critical and seeks to further both Nairobi and Luanda peace processes, which orient towards political solutions rather than continued hostilities.
With Angola poised to contact the M23, the outcome of the negotiations hinges on the willingness of both parties to commit to a ceasefire and undertake sincere political dialogue. Observers will be watching to see if the M23 halts military actions in North and South Kivu and if the DRC government remains steadfast in its dedication to peace. The unfolding discussions in Luanda present a vital chance to avert further humanitarian crises amid ongoing conflict and numerous civilian displacements in eastern DRC.
President Félix Tshisekedi’s decision to engage in direct talks with the M23 rebel group marks a significant diplomatic shift, facilitated by Angolan mediation. The collaboration aims to establish a ceasefire and political dialogue, addressing tensions that have led to displacement and humanitarian concerns. The ongoing negotiations in Luanda represent a critical opportunity for achieving lasting peace in the DRC, contingent upon the commitment of both parties and regional support.
Original Source: chimpreports.com
