Ugandan defence minister mediating Congo rebel talks

on 25/11/2012 15:02:17

The defence minister of Uganda says he is mediating talks between Congolese officials and representatives of M23, the rebel group that last week took control of the eastern Congolese city of Goma and threatens to topple the government of President Joseph Kabila.

Minister Crispus Kiyonga said on Sunday that Uganda is trying to help both sides reach a settlement that would end a violent rebellion that has sucked in Uganda and Rwanda, which both face charges of backing the rebels.

Mr Kiyonga did not name the M23 representatives and Congolese government officials with whom he is meeting in the Ugandan capital Kampala.

A summit of regional leaders on Saturday called on the rebels to leave Goma and urged president Kabila to listen to the "legitimate grievances" of M23.