After a series of discussions mediated by Qatar, the Democratic Republic of Congo and M23 rebels have agreed to a ceasefire until the completion of peace talks. This development comes as significant violence continues in the eastern region, claiming over 7,000 lives since January, amid accusations of Rwandan support for the rebels.
Ceasefire Reached Between DR Congo and M23 Rebels Amid Ongoing Conflict
Ceasefire Reached Between DR Congo and M23 Rebels Amid Ongoing Conflict
DR Congo and M23 rebels have initiated a ceasefire following peace talks in Qatar, aiming to end escalating violence that has claimed thousands of lives this year.
Amidst escalating violence in eastern DR Congo, the government and Rwandan-backed M23 rebels announced a ceasefire following a week of "frank and constructive" talks in Qatar. Both parties are committed to halting hostilities until a framework for lasting peace is established. This truce marks another attempt to quell the conflict that has intensified since the M23's offensive in January, which has been linked to over 7,000 fatalities.
The ceasefire agreement was jointly proclaimed by DR Congo's government and M23 representatives, who expressed their desire to give peace efforts a genuine opportunity. Just last month, Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi met with Rwandan President Paul Kagame in Doha, reaffirming their resolve for an "unconditional" cessation of violence.
The long-standing conflict has raised international concerns, particularly regarding Rwanda's alleged military support of the M23. Though the UN and the US have implicated Rwanda, the latter maintains that its involvement is purely defensive against Congolese forces and associated militias reminiscent of the 1994 genocide.
In a statement broadcasted on Congolese national television, both parties pledged to reject hate speech and intimidation, appealing to local communities to support peace initiatives. The ceasefire is intended to be effective throughout the duration of ongoing peace discussions.
Reports from the talks indicated that the negotiations faced several "technical" challenges, and despite various ceasefires since 2021, it remains uncertain how long this latest agreement will last. Belgian Foreign Affairs Minister Maxime Prevot deemed this truce a vital stride towards ending the longstanding violence in the region. As Qatar continues to mediate following the M23's refusal to participate in talks in Angola, peace efforts now have a renewed focus, amid the Congolese government's prior refusal to engage directly with what it deems a "terrorist group."
