Angola has withdrawn as mediator in the DRC conflict to focus on African Union priorities. The presidency stated a new mediator will be selected soon. Previous negotiation efforts have failed, with a peace summit not occurring due to the absence of Rwandan President Kagame. Despite challenges, Angola remains committed to fostering peace between the DRC and Rwanda.

On March 24, Angola announced its decision to withdraw from mediating the conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in order to concentrate on its responsibilities as the current chair of the African Union (AU). The Angolan presidency stated a new mediator will be appointed imminently, following consultations with the AU Commission.

The statement also highlighted that collaborative measures would be implemented to designate a different nation whose leader, with support from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the East African Community, will assume mediation responsibilities between the DRC and Rwanda.

Planned discussions between the DRC government and the March 23 Movement (M23) rebel group, originally set for March 18, did not occur due to unspecified external factors affecting the ongoing peace process. Additionally, a DRC-Rwanda peace summit scheduled for December 15, 2024, in Luanda was unsuccessful as Rwandan President Paul Kagame opted not to attend, according to Xinhua.

Angola has committed extensive resources to fostering lasting peace in the eastern DRC and enhancing relations between the two nations. Previous efforts to facilitate negotiations between the Congo and the M23 rebels have consistently faltered. The negotiations were initially planned to take place in Angola, but the M23 group withdrew in response to sanctions imposed by the European Union on its leaders and Rwandan officials.

Since May 2022, when the AU designated Angolan President Joao Lourenco to lead mediation initiatives, Angola has advocated for peace and dialogue between the DRC and Rwanda, undertaking numerous initiatives to facilitate communication between these countries.

In conclusion, Angola’s decision to step back from its role as mediator in the DRC conflict marks a significant shift in the regional diplomatic landscape. The appointment of a new mediator will be crucial as ongoing tensions persist between the DRC and Rwanda, particularly in light of failed negotiation attempts and the absence of key stakeholders from summits. Angola’s commitment to peace remains evident, yet the complexities of the conflict demand sustained international attention and cooperation.

Original Source: www.socialnews.xyz

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