M23 rebels cancel participation in peace talks in Angola

By James Tasamba

KIGALI, Rwanda (AA) – The M23 rebel group, at the center of ongoing conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, announced Monday they will not take part in peace talks scheduled for Tuesday in Angola, citing new European Union sanctions on their senior leaders and continued attacks on its positions by government forces.

The announcement came after the EU announced sanctions against five individuals of the group accused of serious human rights violations and abuses in Congo as well as sustaining the armed conflict, instability, and insecurity in the country.

A statement from Lawrence Kanyuka, the group’s spokesperson, said the Alliance Fleuve Congo, a rebel alliance that includes M23 rebels, “deeply regrets” that certain international institutions are deliberately undermining peace efforts in eastern Congo and “obstructing the much-anticipated talks.”

“Successive sanctions imposed on our members, including those enacted on the eve of the Luanda discussions, severely undermine direct dialogue and make any progress impossible,” the statement said.

“Under these circumstances the talks have become impracticable. Consequently our organization can no longer continue to participate in the discussions.”

But the Congolese government confirmed its participation in the talks despite the refusal of the rebels, Tina Salama, spokesperson for President Felix Tshisekedi, told local media.

Those sanctioned include Bertrand Bisimwa, the M23 head, as well as officials for recruitment and finances and Joseph Bahati Musanga, appointed governor of North Kivu, Congo within the new illegal “administration” imposed by the M23.

Those designated are subject to a travel ban and asset freeze.

The EU sanctions also targeted Rwandan military officers including the commander of the Special forces of the Rwanda Defense Force, Ruki Karusisi, and 2nd division commander Pascal Muhizi, who is accused of being responsible for sustaining the armed conflict, instability, and insecurity in Congo.

Congo and Western countries accuse neighboring Rwanda of backing the M23 rebels. Rwanda has denied the allegation.

The rebel group has intensified its offensive in eastern Congo since December, capturing the provincial capitals of Goma and Bukavu.

Peace talks between the Congolese government and M23 rebel group brokered by Angolan President Joao Lourenco, the African Union peace mediator for the conflict in Congo, were due to take place on Tuesday in Angola.

The Congolese government has said at least 7,000 people have been killed in the fighting since January.