The AFC-M23 rebel movement has said it is currently engaged in talks with several Congolese opposition leaders in Pretoria, South Africa. Speaking in a video interview posted via X, Oscar Balinda, the movement’s Deputy Head of Communication and Media Department, said the meeting is organised by the Thabo Mbeki Foundation, and it is aimed at bringing Congolese together to discuss peace and security, which have long been a nightmare, particularly in eastern DR Congo. “There are several Congolese opposition leaders present (in the meeting), including People’s Party for Reconstruction and Democracy (PPRD) of the former President Joseph Kabila, Together for the Republic of Moïse Katumbi, and Envol of Delly Sesanga along with many other Congolese opposed to the current government. The AFC/M23 is also represented,” he noted. ALSO READ: Renewed Doha talks ‘critical step’ to peace deal, says Trump advisor Balinda pointed out that President Félix Tshisekedi has repeatedly been against peace talks and there is no sign that he will accept them anytime soon. Therefore, Balinda said, the other Congolese people will now sit down and discuss the general interests of the people. On August 30, President Félix Tshisekedi said he will not endorse “any dialogue outside” the DR Congo and that he will not be “distracted by political initiatives” mediated by external actors. Tshisekedi made the statement during a congress of the ruling coalition, Union Sacrée, in the capital Kinshasa. ALSO READ: DR Congo forces, allies accused of fresh atrocities against Banyamulenge
