Tutsi-led M23 rebel group, ahead of a peace talk meeting with the Democratic Republic of Congo in Angola, has made demands to the mediation team, to validate their participation before the meeting in Luanda next week.
Angola has been trying to mediate a lasting ceasefire and reduce tensions between Congo and neighbouring Rwanda, which has been accused of backing the Tutsi-led M23 rebels. Rwanda denies those allegations.
Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi is expected to comply to the terms being presented by the rebel group in order for a fruitful discussion to be held between the two parties.
The rebel group according to reports, ask for a direct talk with the Congolese President who has acknowledged Angola’s desire to champion peace between the DRC and the rebel group.
President Felix Tshisekedi has until now rejected direct talks with M23 and the government has not officially confirmed its participation.
M23 welcomed Angola’s initiative but asked Tshisekedi to publicly express his commitment to directly negotiating with the group.
