The Nairobi process on the restoration of peace and security in the east of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), which highlights talks between the Congolese government and armed groups active in the eastern part of the Congo, resumed this Monday, November 28 in the capital of Kenya, but without the M23 rebellion.
This dialogue, which is being held under the auspices of the East African Community (EAC), brought together Burundian Presidents Evariste Ndayishimiye and Kenyan President William Ruto, facilitator Uhuru Kenyatta, former Head of State of Kenya, a delegation Congolese authorities, representatives of international organizations, and many delegates from armed groups.
The M23, described as a “terrorist movement” and supported, according to Kinshasa by Rwanda, is set aside by the Congolese government because of the continuation of its attacks which have already made it possible to have control of three localities.
The M23 could only participate in the Nairobi meeting « if it retracts and agrees to leave the conquered areas in the east of the DRC », indicated Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi, in his address, from Kinshasa, to the opening of negotiations.
The Congolese leader also asserted that “the time has come to change the narrative of the DRC having prolonged insecurity! We are committed to the Nairobi process and long for peace, so that we can rebuild the great Democratic Republic of Congo”.
The EAC’s current chairman, Burundian leader Ndayishimiye, called on « all partners to commit to supporting initiatives aimed at promoting peace and consolidating stability in the region ».
As a reminder, a mini-summit held on November 23 in Luanda, the Angolan capital, on the security situation in the DRC, ordered the M23 to lay down their arms, to withdraw from the conquered areas and to withdraw to their initial areas in Congolese territory. But the rebellion continues to want to gain ground.
Like what, the region still has work to do to achieve the long-awaited peace in the DRC. The Nairobi talks will be held until December 3. Some expect resolutions that will actually be applied on the ground.
By OMA Newsletter N° 953 of 28/11/2022
Article published under the direction of Dr. Najib Kettani
The OMA, NGO with an Intercontinental vocation
For the development of cultural exchanges
Valuing human potential
The promotion and consolidation of Africa’s development, and
Inter-African integration
