The United States has called for dialogue between the government of Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and M23 rebels.
The US call for dialogue came at a time when the M23 rebels were advancing to invade Goma City.
Mathew Miller, the spokesperson of the US State Department of State said on February 6, 2024 that Secretary of State Anthony Blinken had held talks with Kenya’s former president Uhuru Kenyatta about dialogue between DRC government and M23 rebels.
“Mr Blinken spoke with former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta about the conflict in eastern DRC and the importance of providing a pathway to reconciliation with armed groups.
“The Nairobi process and the assistance of regional leaders are vital in resolving the conflict,” Miller posted on his X account.
On the other hand, DRC government had insisted on not negotiating with the M23 rebels.
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This was after a team of leaders from the East African Community attempted a peace process in Nairobi, with an aim of restoring peace and order in DRC but the deal failed.
For instance DRC President Felix Tshisekedi had declared M23 and Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) as terrorist groups.
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At the same time, reports indicate that President Tshisekedi had accused Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame of supporting the M23 rebels. An accusation that Kagame has disputed.
The parliament of DRC has also insisted on not allowing the government to engage in talks with rebels unless they are disarmed.
