African Union Calls for Immediate Ceasefire in Congo

Angolan President João Lourenço has issued a pressing call for an immediate ceasefire in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where conflict has been escalating .

As the current chair of the African Union, Lourenço is urginyg all parties to halt hostilities starting midnight on Sunday, local time. This ceasefire is crucial for creating a peaceful atmosphere ahead of upcoming peace talks scheduled for March 18 in Luanda, Angola.

The proposed ceasefire must encompass all hostile actions against civilians and prevent any attempts to gain new positions in the conflict zone. The talks will bring together the DRC government and the M23 rebels for the first time in three years, although the DRC government has yet to confirm its participation.

In a positive development, the M23 has expressed support for Angola’s peace initiative, calling on President Félix Tshisekedi to commit to direct negotiations. The conflict has worsened in recent months, with the M23 capturing key towns in North and South Kivu provinces, displacing thousands and exacerbating the humanitarian crisis .

Africanews/S.S