The M23 rebel group, which controls significant territory in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), has threatened to withdraw from ongoing peace talks unless the government in Kinshasa releases its detained members ahead of negotiations set to resume in Doha on 8 August.
The militant group accused the Congolese government of stalling on implementing a key clause in the peace agreement, which mandates the release of prisoners before further discussions. In a statement on Friday, M23’s permanent secretary warned that the group would not participate in the upcoming talks if its demands were not met.
“What will we do in Doha if our prisoners are not yet released? It’s written in the declaration that this clause must be implemented before moving to the next stage,” the official said.
Fragile Ceasefire and Renewed Fighting
The peace process, mediated by Qatar, initially led to a declaration of principles that included an immediate ceasefire. However, the truce quickly collapsed, with both sides accusing each other of violations. Clashes between M23 and Wazalendu self-defense groups—allied with the Congolese army—have intensified in North and South Kivu provinces.
M23 claims it is acting in self-defense, alleging that Kinshasa is attacking through both its regular forces (FARDC) and allied militias. “If there was an attempt to attack us, we will observe and declare that it is the Kinshasa government that is attacking us,” the group stated.
Fading Hope in Goma
In Goma, a city of over two million people that fell under rebel control earlier this year, residents are growing disillusioned with the peace process. Despite high hopes following the Doha agreement, violence persists, leaving civilians desperate for lasting stability.
“There are no visible changes in relation to the discussions being held,” one resident said. “We’re still waiting for the ongoing clashes to be resolved. We want agreements to be reached.”
Another local expressed frustration, saying, “The leaders must do their best to reach an agreement so the country can return to unity. This war is unnecessary and does not contribute to development.”
A Crucial Juncture for Peace
With direct talks scheduled to begin in Doha next week, the M23’s boycott threat casts doubt on the prospects of a breakthrough. For mediators and war-weary civilians in eastern DRC, the upcoming negotiations represent a critical opportunity to move beyond fragile promises and achieve a lasting peace.
However, as fighting continues and trust erodes, the path to silencing the guns remains uncertain. The international community watches closely, urging both sides to prioritize dialogue over conflict.
