Rwanda has once again found itself at the centre of the debate, accused of supporting the M23 rebel group, which has been responsible for atrocities against civilians in the conflict-ridden North Kivu region of eastern DRC.
The accusations carry historic weight, as Samuel Mbemba, the DRC’s Deputy Minister of Justice and Legal Affairs, pointed out, saying it was a watershed moment after decades of aggression against their country, the plundering of their mineral resources, the rape of their children and women, and the massacres of their people.
Four months after the DRC filed a complaint against Rwanda at the East African Court of Justice, accusing it of violating its sovereignty, committing atrocities against civilians and violating international law in eastern DRC, this new case is a watershed.
In November, with Angola’s mediation, the DRC and Rwanda signed a key agreement to work towards peace in the conflict region. The document, known as the Concept of Operations (CONOPS), sets out a four-step plan to advance the peace process in eastern DRC.
In a Facebook post, the Presidency of Angola announced that the respective presidents of the two countries would meet for talks on December 15, at a summit in the Angolan capital, Luanda.
This situation raises critical questions about international relations, regional security, and the need to find peaceful solutions to Africa’s persistent conflicts. As these events unfold, it is imperative that the various parties involved genuinely commit to working together to achieve peace and stability in the region.
It is time for the nations concerned to demonstrate political will, respect the agreements signed and work together to find lasting solutions that will benefit all the people of the region. Peace, justice and respect for human rights must be the top priorities in resolving this complex conflict.