In an effort to revitalize stalled peace talks in eastern Congo, Southern and Eastern African nations have expanded the team of former heads of state tasked with mediating the conflict.
Following a virtual summit on Monday, regional political blocs announced the appointment of five former leaders: Olusegun Obasanjo of Nigeria, Kgalema Motlanthe of South Africa, Sahle-Work Zewde of Ethiopia, Uhuru Kenyatta of Kenya, and Catherine Samba Panza of the Central African Republic, to “facilitate” the peace process.
This move comes amidst renewed setbacks, including the M23 rebels’ reversal of their pledge to withdraw from Walikale and their accusations against the Congolese army for continuing offensive operations.
The conflict, rooted in the aftermath of the 1994 Rwandan genocide and competition for mineral resources, has escalated since January, with M23 seizing control of key cities and raising fears of a broader regional war.
The Congolese presidency has indicated that the new panel will appoint a mediator to replace Angolan President Joao Lourenco, who stepped down from the role after years of unsuccessful mediation between Rwanda and Congo.
Rwanda, which faces sanctions from Western countries for its alleged support of M23, has stated its commitment to a political solution that addresses the security concerns of all parties, while denying direct involvement with the rebels. Rwanda also claims its forces are acting in self-defense.
Last week, Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame held direct talks in Qatar, expressing support for an immediate ceasefire. However, M23 has dismissed these calls, insisting on direct negotiations with the Congolese government.
A planned meeting in Angola was canceled after M23 withdrew in protest over new EU sanctions.
The conflict has involved the armies of Congo, Rwanda, and Burundi, raising concerns of a wider regional conflict.
Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye has accused Rwanda of planning an attack on Burundi, emphasizing his desire for dialogue to resolve the issue.
Rwanda’s government spokesperson, Yolande Makolo, expressed surprise at these comments, noting recent meetings between Rwandan and Burundian defense and security officials to discuss border security.
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