President Paul Kagame has called on the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to engage in direct negotiations with the M23 rebel group after it seized key towns in eastern Congo, expanding its control in the region.
The M23 group has been a dominant force among over 100 armed factions vying for power in the mineral-rich border area. The recent capture of towns like Katale and Masisi has heightened fears of further instability.
Kagame stressed the importance of dialogue, telling reporters in Kigali that refusing to engage with M23 indicates an unwillingness to seek a peaceful resolution. “There has to be an effort to continue finding a solution,” he said, emphasizing that the path forward lies in political dialogue.
Despite Kagame’s call, the Congolese government has accused Rwanda of supporting M23 and has rejected calls for direct talks. Tensions are further exacerbated by the ongoing presence of the FDLR, a rebel group allegedly linked to the 1994 Rwandan genocide, which Rwanda claims is operating with the backing of the Congolese army.
The M23 group, which emerged in 2012, revived its insurgency in late 2021 and has since seized large swathes of territory. The group’s resurgence has displaced thousands of people, deepening the humanitarian crisis in North Kivu province.
While M23 insists it is committed to civilian protection, its actions have instilled widespread fear, forcing thousands to flee their homes. In the face of escalating violence, Kagame’s call for dialogue highlights the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict.