By Simon Nare
Former president Kgalema Motlanthe has been appointed to the panel of facilitators for peace talks in the war-torn eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
Motlanthe will serve in the panel alongside other distinguished African and former leaders such as former Nigerian president Olusegun Obasanjo and former Kenyan president Uhuru Kenyatta.
In welcoming the appointment, the ANC said in a statement on Tuesday that the move underscored the continent’s commitment to finding African solutions to African challenges.
The party commended the Southern African Development Community and the East African Community in their efforts to find lasting peace in DRC.
“The ANC urges all parties to the conflict to engage in good faith and commit to a sustainable ceasefire and a negotiated settlement that prioritises peace, stability and the well-being of the Congolese people.”
The ANC said it remained concerned about the continued violence, particularly the activities of armed groups that undermined the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the DRC.
“The ANC calls on the international community to support regional peace initiatives and to hold accountable those who fuel instability for their own interests.
“As a movement committed to Pan-Africanism and solidarity, the ANC reaffirms its belief that peace in the DRC is essential for regional integration, economic development and the realisation of Africa’s potential,” it said.
The party said the peace initiative aligned with its vision of a ‘Better Africa, Better World’ where conflicts were resolved through dialogue and mutual respect.
It said it would continue to support diplomatic and political efforts for a peaceful settlement in that country.
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