# Southern and eastern African political blocs have expanded the mediation team to address the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel offensive in eastern DRC. The expansion follows stalled peace efforts after M23’s failure to attend talks last week, and the capture of Walikale. Angola stepped down from its mediation role. The new panel aims to facilitate piece and includes former heads of state, such as former president Kgalema Motlanthe. The leaders reaffirm a commitment to a political solution addressing all security concerns.
Southern and Eastern Africa expand mediation team for DRC peace talks