DR Congo Firm on Refusing Direct Talks with M23 Rebels amid…

The DRC has rejected calls for direct negotiations with the M23 rebel group amid rising international pressure. Instead, Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka advocates for talks with Rwanda, accused of backing M23. The conflict has resulted in significant casualties and displacements. Regional calls for peace emphasize Rwanda’s troop withdrawal and ceasefire.

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) remains steadfast in its refusal to engage in direct negotiations with the M23 rebel group, despite escalating international pressure. Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka emphasized the government’s focus on discussions with Rwanda, which it accuses of supporting M23. Recent violence has resulted in approximately 8,500 casualties and mass displacements of communities amidst ongoing conflict, with Rwanda implicated in the hostilities according to UN reports.

Amidst prior peace talks led by Angola that stalled last December, M23 advanced strategically, capturing significant cities such as Goma and Bukavu early this year. Regional efforts for a ceasefire and the withdrawal of foreign forces were reiterated by East and Southern African leaders, who pushed for inclusive dialogue, specifically with the M23. Rwandan President Paul Kagame, when asked about military involvement, exhibited reticence, underscoring potential shifts in international opinion toward Rwanda.

The DRC government welcomed recent U.S. sanctions against Rwandan officials as a mechanism to exert pressure on it to withdraw troops from Congolese territory. Furthermore, the European Commission halted defense consultations with Rwanda, reflecting concerns over illegal exploitation of Congolese resources, a point reiterated by Prime Minister Tuluka. The UK government also announced a pause in aid to Rwanda contingent upon a troop withdrawal and meaningful dialogue.

Rwanda labeled these decisions as punitive, asserting its obligation to maintain national security. Tuluka argued that calls for withdrawal from Rwandan forces continue to be dismissed. She reiterated that direct dialogues with M23 could be avoided if Rwandan troops exited Congolese territory and M23 ceased violent actions against civilians. Tuluka denied claims of the DRC working with the FDLR militia but mentioned a commitment to neutralizing such threats.

In summary, the Democratic Republic of Congo is resisting external pressures to negotiate directly with the M23 rebel group. It emphasizes a focus on addressing Rwandan involvement instead, amidst mounting casualties and displacements. International responses, particularly from the U.S. and the EU, reflect growing concerns over the conflict’s dynamics and resource exploitation. The focus now shifts to ensuring the withdrawal of Rwandan forces as a pathway to peace.

Original Source: www.bbc.com