Despite “significant efforts” by Qatari mediators,peace talks between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) government and M23 rebels have missed key deadlines,as violence intensifies across eastern regions.
A draft peace agreement — based on a Declaration of Principles signed in Doha on 19 July — was shared with both sides,according to a Qatari official. The roadmap aimed for a ceasefire deal by 18 August,but escalating ground conflict and mistrust have derailed the process. While both parties reportedly “responded positively” to mediation efforts,the M23 said future talks hinge on the full implementation of initial agreements,particularly the release of prisoners. A Congolese official,however,noted the complexity of that demand,suggesting it should be part of negotiations,not a precondition. The Qatari official,speaking anonymously,confirmed ongoing negotiations in Doha,despite missed milestones. Neither Kinshasa nor the M23 have commented publicly.
Meanwhile,eastern DRC has witnessed mounting bloodshed. The United Nations condemned recent massacres by Islamic State-linked ADF rebels,who killed at least 52 civilians in Beni and Lubero. Victims,including children,were slaughtered with machetes in overnight raids in what Lieutenant Elongo Kyondwa Marc,a regional Congolese army spokesperson,described as ADF’s revenge after they suffered defeats by Congolese forces. The situation on the ground remains dire,with the UN estimating 27.8 million people face food insecurity and over seven million displaced. Hopes for peace now hinge on sustained diplomacy and de-escalation.
United News - unews.co.za