His appeal aligns with the resolutions from the recent extraordinary summit of the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), which called for a ceasefire and negotiations between the conflicting parties in eastern DRC.
The international community has repeatedly encouraged the DRC government to negotiate with M23 in search of a lasting security solution.
However, the government has consistently rejected this approach, opting instead for military intervention.
Despite continued offensives by the DRC army coalition, M23 has expanded its control over more territories. This was evident on January 23, when the group took over Sake, and again on January 27, when it captured Goma.
Cardinal Ambongo criticized the government's refusal to hold talks with M23, arguing that relying solely on military solutions has proven ineffective and has only worsened conditions for civilians.
He stressed that dialogue is essential in resolving long-standing conflicts and warned against wasting more time while the country remains in crisis.
Speaking during a Mass in Kinshasa on January 9, he underscored the urgency of negotiations, asserting that addressing decades-old challenges requires engagement with all stakeholders, including perceived enemies.
He emphasized that every moment is crucial for the nation's stability and urged authorities to take swift action to prevent further deterioration of the situation.
Cardinal Ambongo also suggested that if necessary, the DRC government should be willing to travel to Goma, currently under M23 control, to meet with the group's representatives. He maintained that achieving lasting peace should take precedence over political or logistical concerns.
Cardinal Ambongo further insisted that negotiations should involve all parties, regardless of where they are, as excluding key stakeholders would hinder efforts to reach a sustainable resolution.
While the DRC government welcomed the resolutions from the EAC and SADC summit, it has not indicated any willingness to change its position and engage in direct talks with M23 as recommended.
IGIHE
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/cardinal-ambongo-urges-drc-to-open-dialogue-with-m23
