Fatshimetrie: Félix Tshisekedi rejects any direct negotiation with the M23 following the failure of the tripartite summit in Luanda.
The recent statement by Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi at the Council of Ministers in Kinshasa has sparked strong reactions in the region. Indeed, after the collapse of talks at the Luanda summit, the head of state reaffirmed the position of the DRC by categorically refusing any direct negotiation with the M23 rebel group.
The tripartite summit between the Congolese, Rwandan and Angolan presidents was initially supposed to result in a peace agreement sincerely negotiated by the foreign ministers of the three countries. However, Rwanda introduced a new prerequisite, demanding direct dialogue between the DRC and the M23. A request considered by Félix Tshisekedi as a major obstacle to efforts to pacificate the region.
In his speech, President Tshisekedi denounced Rwanda’s intransigence, calling its position sabotage to peace efforts and a violation of UN Security Council resolutions. The DRC thus refuses to comply with this requirement, affirming its commitment to continue diplomatic and security efforts to establish lasting peace while protecting its sovereignty.
Faced with this diplomatic failure, Félix Tshisekedi called on the international community to react firmly to Rwanda’s attitude, accused of contributing to insecurity in the DRC. The cancellation of the Luanda summit highlighted the differences between the countries concerned, with the DRC and Rwanda disagreeing on the issue of direct talks with the M23.
The situation also worries Angolan President João Lourenço, the mediator appointed by the African Union, who calls on the parties to prioritize the interests of their peoples and work together to resolve the crisis. In this tense context, the stability of the Great Lakes region remains uncertain, and the search for a peaceful solution remains a priority.
In conclusion, Félix Tshisekedi’s firmness towards the M23 and Rwanda illustrates the DRC’s desire to preserve its sovereignty and guarantee the security of its citizens. The current impasse underscores the urgency of finding common ground between the parties to end the conflicts and establish lasting peace in the region. Resolving this complex crisis will require sincere commitment and constructive dialogue, for the well-being of the Congolese people and the international community.