DR Congo Hands First Prisoners to M23 in Peace Deal Move
Democratic Republic of Congo authorities have released 15 prisoners and handed them over to the AFC/M23 rebel movement in the first known prisoner transfer under a 2025 peace deal.
The deal is aimed at ending fighting in eastern Congo. The transfer, facilitated by the International Committee of the Red Cross and with Uganda’s assistance, follows months of stalled negotiations over a larger exchange involving nearly 500 detainees.
The ICRC described the operation as a potential step towards further releases and a “glimmer of hope” for families affected by the conflict. However, fighting between government forces and M23 has continued despite the peace agreement.
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The Democratic Republic of the Congo has filed a case against Rwanda at the International Court of Justice.
It accused its neighbour of violating multiple international treaties by allegedly deploying troops and supporting armed groups in eastern DR Congo. Kinshasa is seeking an order for Rwanda to halt the alleged violations and pay reparations to victims.
Rwanda, which has consistently denied backing the M23 rebel
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![Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of the State of Qatar (center) hosting meeting with Rwanda President Paul Kagame and Democratic Republic of Congo President Félix Tshisekedi Tshilombo in Doha]()
In a statement, the UN peacekeeping mission said the signing of the Qatar peace agreement between the Congolese government and M23 rebels on Saturday reflects the parties’ commitment to a peaceful resolution of the ongoing conflict, through “establishing a ceasefire” and setting up of a joint mechanism for its implementation.
“This important declaration marks a shift towards easing tensions
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The Congolese government and the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group have reached an agreement for the creation of joint ceasefire monitoring body. Representatives from both groups made the announcement via social media posts. It came after months of negotiation in the Qatari Capital, Doha.
The body will oversee the implementation of a
M23 rebels near Sake, Eastern DR Congo.
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