Angola Withdraws from Mediating Between DRC and M23 Rebels After Failed Talks

Angola has withdrawn from mediating the conflict between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and M23 rebels, allegedly backed by Rwanda. The country’s authorities cited failed negotiations and external interference as reasons for stepping back.

The Angolan presidency made the announcement on Monday. Angola had secured an agreement for direct negotiations between the DRC government and M23 rebels in Luanda on March 18. However, the talks collapsed at the last minute. Angola blamed this on a combination of factors, including external elements unrelated to the ongoing African process.

Angola has always believed in the need for direct negotiations between the DRC Government and the M23, and has worked towards this goal and secured the consent of both parties for the first round to take place in Luanda on 18th March this year. However, this event was aborted at the last minute due to a combination of factors, including some external elements unrelated to the ongoing African process,” the statement read.

Since taking on the mediation role, Angola has faced several challenges. The DRC initially refused to negotiate with M23. Last week, the rebels also rejected talks, saying international sanctions made engagement difficult.

Tensions escalated further after DRC President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame met in Doha, Qatar. The meeting, which was not part of Angola’s mediation process, complicated efforts to bring both sides to the table.

Meanwhile, violence in eastern Congo has worsened. Since January, M23 rebels have captured key North and South Kivu towns. Thousands have been displaced. The rebels now control Minova, Lumbishi, Numbi, Shanje, and Bweremana, areas rich in coltan, cobalt, and lithium. Despite military efforts by the DRC, supported by troops from South Africa, Burundi, and Uganda, M23 has held its ground. The ongoing clashes have raised fears of a larger regional conflict.

M23 recently announced it would pull out of Walikale as a goodwill gesture. However, there is no clear path forward. Angola, currently chairing the African Union, says it will focus on broader continental issues.

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