ARUSHA, TANZANIA – During the 24th Extra-Ordinary Summit of East African Community (EAC) Heads of State on January 29, 2025, regional leaders called on Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) President Félix Tshisekedi to hold direct negotiations with M23 rebels. The summit emphasized that a military solution alone will not bring lasting peace to the region.
The official communiqué stated, “The Summit called for a peaceful settlement of the conflicts and strongly urged the government of the DRC to directly engage with all stakeholders, including the M23 and other armed groups that have grievances.” However, Tshisekedi did not attend the summit, which deepened the diplomatic standoff regarding the escalating crisis in eastern DRC.
Despite mounting pressure from EAC leaders and international voices—including those of the United States and Turkey—Tshisekedi has remained firm in his refusal to negotiate with what he labels a “terrorist group” backed by Rwanda. The absence of dialogue raises concerns about the potential for further military escalation and instability in the Great Lakes region.