Luanda: Angola announced on Tuesday its plan to facilitate direct negotiations between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the M23 rebel group, which has been accused of receiving support from Rwanda. The move is part of Angola’s broader efforts to mediate a ceasefire and reduce tensions in the region.
The Congolese government has so far resisted engaging in talks with the M23, and it remains uncertain whether they will participate in the proposed discussions. A spokesperson for President Félix Tshisekedi acknowledged Angola’s initiative but did not confirm Congo’s involvement. Meanwhile, a deputy spokesperson for the M23 hailed the decision, calling it “a victory of reason” and confirming their readiness to join the talks.
Angola has been at the forefront of diplomatic efforts to ease hostilities between Congo and Rwanda. Kinshasa has repeatedly accused Kigali of backing the M23 rebels, an allegation Rwanda denies, insisting its forces are merely defending against threats from Congolese troops and militia groups opposed to Kigali.
Since January, M23 fighters have captured two of eastern Congo’s largest cities, intensifying a long-running conflict that dates back to the aftermath of Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and the battle for control over Congo’s vast mineral wealth.
President Tshisekedi recently visited Angola’s capital, Luanda, where he met with his Angolan counterpart, João Lourenço. Angola’s presidency confirmed on Facebook that it would engage with M23 leadership to arrange direct negotiations between the rebel group and Congolese officials in Luanda in the coming days.
