The AFC/M23 coalition and the Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo signed an agreement this Saturday establishing the “basic principles” to end the war the two parties have been engaged in for more than three years.
The signing ceremony was led by Qatar’s Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al-Khulaifi.
On the DRC side, the agreement was signed by Sumbu Sita Mambu, special envoy of President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi in charge of the Nairobi and Luanda dialogue processes, while the AFC/M23 was represented by its Permanent Secretary, Benjamin Bonimpa.
This agreement follows three months of negotiations between AFC/M23 and Kinshasa under Qatari mediation.
Talks between both sides have also been closely monitored by the United States, which, according to reports, has been pressuring both parties in recent days to reach an agreement.
Among the attendees was Massad Boulos, advisor to former U.S. President Donald Trump on African affairs.
What exactly did AFC/M23 and the DRC Government agree on?
A copy of the signed basic principles agreement, obtained by BWIZA, indicates that both Kinshasa and M23 recognize that “only the path of peace can provide a solution to the crisis.”
The agreement includes several key commitments:
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Respecting a permanent ceasefire, including a halt to attacks by air, land, sea, and lakes.
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Ending all forms of hate propaganda.
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Refraining from seizing new territories by force.
Both sides also agreed to establish a monitoring mechanism to oversee the ceasefire, which may include MONUSCO and regional bodies as needed.
Additionally, they agreed to build trust through measures such as:
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Creating a special committee to release prisoners associated with both sides, with the support of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).
The DRC Government must also reclaim control over eastern regions currently outside its authority. However, the precise process will be outlined in the upcoming comprehensive peace agreement.
Kinshasa and AFC/M23 must also engage in discussions to ensure the dignified return of refugees and displaced persons, in collaboration with their countries of origin and the UNHCR.
Both parties are expected to implement these initial commitments by July 29, and begin direct negotiations leading to a final peace deal no later than August 8.
If all goes according to plan, the final peace agreement will be signed on August 18, 2025.
