The DRC firmly opposes direct talks with the M23 rebel group despite the rise in international demand for dialogue. Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka emphasizes negotiations with Rwanda, accused of backing the rebels. The conflict has resulted in numerous casualties and displacements, leading to increased scrutiny of Rwanda’s military involvement and actions in the region.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has reaffirmed its stance against engaging in direct negotiations with the M23 rebel group, despite increasing international pressure for such discussions. Following recent advances by the M23 in eastern DRC, which have resulted in significant casualties and displacement, the DRC government is prioritizing negotiations with Rwanda, whom it blames for supporting the rebels. Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka emphasized, “The aggressor of the territorial integrity and of the sovereignty of the Democratic Republic of Congo is Rwanda,” referencing a UN report that detailed Rwandan troop involvement in the conflict.
Peace talks facilitated by Angola encountered a stalemate last December as Rwanda insisted on the necessity of direct talks between DRC and the M23. The rebel group quickly gained ground, capturing significant cities including Goma and Bukavu earlier this year. Recently, a joint mediation effort among regional leaders called for an immediate ceasefire and the withdrawal of foreign troops from DRC, alongside calls for dialogue with the M23.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame did not deny the presence of Rwandan forces in DRC, stating vaguely when questioned. The ongoing conflict has resulted in Rwanda, generally seen favorably in the West, facing increasing international scrutiny, particularly as pressure builds for its withdrawal from Congolese territory. Prime Minister Tuluka welcomed US sanctions against Rwandan officials, asserting that they would exert crucial pressure on Rwanda, despite Rwanda’s dismissal of such actions as ineffective.
In response to the unrest, the European Commission has halted defense discussions with Rwanda and is reassessing previous agreements regarding resource exploitation. Prime Minister Tuluka criticized Rwanda for illegally taking advantage of DRC’s mineral resources. The UK government also expressed its disapproval, threatening to suspend aid unless Rwanda withdraws its troops and engages constructively in peace talks.
Rwanda characterized the UK’s decisions as punitive, arguing that national security concerns justify its military presence in DRC. Tuluka countered these claims, stressing that it is Rwanda impeding conflict resolution. Discussing the possibility of addressing the situation without direct negotiations with M23, she outlined that a ceasefire solution hinges on the withdrawal of Rwandan forces and halting M23 attacks on Congolese citizens.
The DRC government remains steadfast in excluding direct talks with the M23 rebel group, shifting focus to negotiations with Rwanda, perceived as its principal adversary. Despite international calls for dialogue, DRC accuses Rwanda of aggression and resource exploitation, with ongoing tensions exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. Regional leaders advocate for peace, yet realization of a ceasefire remains contingent upon each party’s response to external pressures and diplomatic engagements.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
