Doha: In the declaration of principles signed under Qatari mediation in Doha on Saturday, the Congolese government and the AFC/M23 rebellion affirmed their commitment to seeking a peaceful resolution to the conflict through negotiation, in line with the principles of the DRC Constitution, the African Union, and United Nations charters. The document commits both sides to a permanent ceasefire and bans various forms of attacks and undermining actions.
According to Deutsche Welle, the agreement emphasizes restoring state authority throughout the national territory, suggesting the return of state institutions like the army, police, judiciary, and civil administration to areas currently under AFC/M23 rebel control. U.S. Special Envoy for Africa Massad Boulos highlighted the importance of extending state control as outlined in the declaration.
Despite the initial optimism, disagreements emerged soon after the signing. Kinshasa claimed to have secured a commitment for the rebels to withdraw from occupied zones, a position quickly contested by the rebels. Patrick Muyaya, the government spokesperson, asserted that the declaration includes the rebels’ withdrawal, while Benjamin Mbonimpa, head of the rebel delegation, insisted that AFC/M23 would not retreat.
According to Congolese political analyst Christian Moleka, the primary challenge lies in the implementation of the agreement, similar to previous accords. Moleka questioned the political will and the effectiveness of monitoring mechanisms to achieve lasting peace. The declaration calls for confidence-building measures, including the release of prisoners and the return of refugees, but lacks penalties for breaches or justice mechanisms, a significant unresolved issue.
A monitoring and verification mechanism remains to be established, which is crucial for defining the terms of the ceasefire and ensuring the declaration’s implementation. Analysts like Muya emphasize that the feasibility of the agreement depends on the sincerity of commitments and the ability to turn principles into actionable outcomes on the ground.
The responsibility for implementing the agreement primarily rests with the Congolese government and the AFC/M23 rebel coalition, as highlighted by Qatar. The U.S. has also exerted pressure for a durable peace agreement in the DRC and the Great Lakes region.