The March 23 Movement (M23) says it would not participate in the peace talks scheduled for Luanda, contradicting the announcement made by Angolan authorities.
In a statement issued by Corneille Nanga, leader of the Congo River Alliance (AFC), the rebel movement indicated that it was “reconsidering its participation in the Luanda talks” until “further
notice.”
This decision comes in response to sanctions recently imposed by the European Union against the AFC. The M23 believes these measures are “part of a process of hindering the resolution of the crisis” in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
The armed group, which controls several towns in eastern Congo, reiterates in its statement
that “while a ceasefire has been declared, neither side can take action or benefit from decisions that could weaken the other party to the conflict.”
This refusal to participate in the negotiations represents a new setback for the peace process in the Great Lakes region, as violence persists despite regional and international diplomatic efforts.
The Angolan presidency assures that the Congolese delegation has already arrived in Luanda.
AC/fss/as/APA