The M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, have gained ground in eastern DRC, enabling them to reject talks with President Tshisekedi’s government. The rebels cited EU sanctions as a reason for their withdrawal from planned negotiations, highlighting the ongoing distrust and the complexities surrounding multiple peace initiatives in the region. Despite efforts for a ceasefire, mistrust remains prevalent on all sides.
For years, the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have sought direct negotiations with the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Their recent territorial gains allow them to dismiss such negotiations, aiming instead to extract further concessions from authorities. Following the M23’s capture of major eastern cities, President Felix Tshisekedi’s administration agreed to talks in Angola, which the M23 subsequently abandoned.
The M23 coalition, known as the Congo River Alliance (AFC), expressed on Monday that European Union sanctions imposed on their leaders and Rwandan officials have rendered negotiations “impracticable.” Political analyst Tresor Kibangula noted that these sanctions have allowed the M23/AFC to withdraw from talks, demonstrating their unwillingness to negotiate without a promise of significant concessions.
In a surprise meeting, President Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame called for a ceasefire. However, the effectiveness of their discussions, mediated by Qatar and distinct from the failed M23 negotiations, remains uncertain, especially as M23’s military resurgence continues without signs of abating.
The M23 has previously advocated for an end to what it deems the persecution of ethnic Tutsis in Congo, while the DRC government labels them as terrorists, demanding their disarmament. Political scientist Jason Stearns highlighted that M23 would likely not cease its advances while enjoying military superiority, especially given the unexpected severity of sanctions on Rwanda.
Efforts to bring feuding parties to negotiation have been hindered by numerous competing peace initiatives. Angola aims to broker peace between Rwanda and the DRC, though previous talks stalled due to opposition to engaging directly with the M23. Recently, Angola agreed to host direct discussions, but skepticism from rebels regarding Angola’s impartiality has surfaced, exacerbated by logistical issues surrounding the planned talks.
On Monday, a joint session of the East African Community and Southern African Development Community established a plan to resolve the conflict with the goal of securing a ceasefire within 30 days. However, mistrust persists on both sides, with an unnamed African diplomat noting the need for coherence in the various peace initiatives to move forward effectively.
In conclusion, the ongoing conflict involving M23 rebels in eastern DRC illustrates the complexities of political negotiations amid escalating hostilities and competing peace processes. The rebels’ military successes and resulting leverage have allowed them to reject negotiations, while mutual distrust hampers potential resolutions. With regional diplomatic efforts underway, achieving a sustainable ceasefire remains a significant challenge, necessitating collaboration and trust among all parties involved.
Original Source: www.straitstimes.com
