Postponement of the Scheduled Summit: A Setback for the Luanda Peace Process

The scheduled summit on 15 December, which was part of the Luanda Peace Process, has been postponed due to a new condition introduced by the Rwandan government. The condition states that the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) must engage in direct dialogue with the M23 terrorists before signing any peace agreement. The M23 is a notorious terrorist organisation with a history of serious human rights violations and destabilising activities in the DRC.

This eleventh-hour demand by Rwanda is viewed as a deliberate obstruction to the peace process, which has been painstakingly negotiated over time. The Luanda Peace Process, initiated by the African Union and endorsed by the United Nations Security Council, has the objective of establishing stability in the region by addressing the conflict between the DRC and Rwanda.

The introduction of this new condition has the potential to derail the peace process, as it represents a significant shift from the previously agreed-upon terms. The DRC has declined to engage in direct discussions with the M23 terrorists, citing the group’s designation as a terrorist organisation with backing from Rwanda. This refusal has resulted in a deadlock in negotiations, necessitating the postponement of the summit.

The postponement of the summit represents a significant setback, as it delays the adoption of a draft agreement that had been prepared and negotiated by the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the DRC, Angola, and Rwanda. This agreement was seen as a crucial step towards achieving peace and stability in the region.

Importance of the Summit

The summit scheduled for 15 December was of great significance to the Luanda Peace Process, an initiative endorsed by both the African Union and the United Nations Security Council. The Luanda Peace Process, which commenced in 2022, is an initiative designed to address the ongoing conflicts in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), with a particular focus on those involving the M23 terrorists.

Aims of the Luanda Peace Process

The primary objective of the Luanda Peace Process is to establish stability and peace in the region by addressing the underlying causes of the conflict and facilitating dialogue between the relevant parties. The process engages a number of key stakeholders, including the governments of the DRC, Angola, and Rwanda, as well as international organisations such as the African Union and the United Nations.

Significance of the Draft Agreement

The draft agreement, which was to be adopted at the summit, represented a significant step towards achieving the aforementioned goals. The Ministers of Foreign Affairs from the DRC, Angola, and Rwanda undertook a thorough and meticulous preparation and negotiation process. It was anticipated that the agreement would establish a foundation for sustainable peace by outlining specific measures to address the conflict, including disarmament, demobilisation, and reintegration of combatants, as well as mechanisms for monitoring and enforcing the peace process.

Impact on Regional Stability

The successful adoption of the draft agreement would have represented a significant achievement in the peace process, establishing a framework for continued collaboration and dialogue among the involved parties. It was expected that this agreement would help to stabilise the region, reduce violence and create conditions conducive to economic and social development.

New Condition Introduced by Rwanda

At the ministerial meeting on Saturday, 14 December, Rwanda proposed a new prerequisite for the signing of the peace agreement. This stipulation necessitates direct dialogue between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the M23 terrorists prior to the signing of any agreement. The M23 is a notorious terrorist organisation with a history of human rights violations and destabilising activities in the DRC.

Implications of the New Condition

The last-minute demand by Rwanda is regarded as a calculated obstruction to the peace process. The Luanda Peace Process, initiated by the African Union and endorsed by the United Nations Security Council, has the objective of establishing stability in the region by addressing the conflict between the DRC and Rwanda. The introduction of this new condition has the potential to cause significant disruption to the entire peace process, as it represents a significant shift from the previously agreed-upon terms.

Rwanda’s Support for M23

Rwanda’s insistence on direct dialogue between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the M23 terrorists is seen by many as evidence of its unconditional support for the terrorists. This stance has significant implications for the regional peace process.

Perception of Support

Rwanda’s push for direct talks between the DRC and M23 terrorists is seen as legitimising the terrorist group, which has been involved in serious human rights violations and destabilising activities in the DRC. This perception of support is considered to be irresponsible and counterproductive to the peace efforts that have been underway for years.

Accusations and Diplomatic Strain

The government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has long accused the government of Rwanda of providing military support, training, and equipment to the M23 terrorists. These allegations have resulted in a further deterioration of diplomatic relations between the two countries. The deployment of Rwandan troops in eastern Congo, as reported by various sources, has led to heightened tensions and a more complex peace process.

Impact on Peace Efforts

Rwanda’s position is regarded as a major obstacle to the Luanda Peace Process, which aims to promote regional stability. The introduction of the new condition for direct dialogue with the M23 terrorist group has the potential to result in a setback for the progress that has been made thus far. This action is regarded as an intentional hindrance to the peace process, underscoring the complexities and challenges inherent in achieving long-lasting peace in the region.

Potential Derailment of Progress

The Luanda Peace Process has been a pivotal framework for achieving peace in the region, engaging a multitude of stakeholders, including the governments of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Angola, and Rwanda, as well as international organisations like the African Union and the United Nations. The introduction of the new condition by Rwanda represents a significant departure from the previously agreed terms, creating a major obstacle to the negotiations.

Complications in Diplomatic Relations

Rwanda’s insistence on direct dialogue with M23 criminals is a significant obstacle to improving diplomatic relations between the DRC and Rwanda. The DRC government has designated M23 as a terrorist organisation, citing its involvement in serious human rights violations and destabilising activities. Attempts to engage in direct talks with M23 terrorists are seen as legitimising the terrorists, which further exacerbates the already tense relations between the two countries.

Challenges in Achieving Lasting Peace

The new condition introduced by Rwanda highlights the complexities and challenges involved in achieving a sustainable peace in the region. For the peace process to succeed, it is essential that all parties involved demonstrate a commitment to cooperation. However, the introduction of new demands and conditions may impede progress and create additional obstacles to reaching a comprehensive and sustainable peace agreement.

Need for Continued Efforts

The postponement of the summit and the introduction of the new condition by Rwanda demonstrate the necessity for sustained efforts and negotiations to attain enduring peace in the region. It is of the utmost importance that all parties involved work towards a resolution that prioritises peace and stability, addresses the root causes of the conflict and fosters dialogue and cooperation.

In summary, Rwanda’s stance and the introduction of the new condition for direct dialogue with M23 terrorists have created significant obstacles to the Luanda Peace Process. This could have the effect of reversing the progress that has been made thus far, which serves to illustrate the complexities and challenges inherent in achieving lasting peace in the region.

Joram Jojo