Congo, M23 Rebels to Sign Declaration of Principles to End Fighting
In a hopeful step toward ending a protracted and deadly conflict, the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the M23 rebel group are expected to sign a “Declaration of Principles” aimed at halting hostilities and paving the way for a permanent peace agreement. The announcement follows weeks of behind-the-scenes negotiations mediated by regional leaders and international partners, including the African Union and the East African Community.
The move comes after more than a year of escalating violence in eastern Congo, where M23 rebels — a Tutsi-led armed group — have seized vast swathes of territory in North Kivu province. The fighting has displaced more than one million people, triggered a severe humanitarian crisis, and heightened regional tensions, especially between Congo and neighboring Rwanda, which Kinshasa accuses of backing the rebels — a charge Kigali denies.
The proposed Declaration of Principles is expected to include commitments from both sides to cease hostilities, respect humanitarian law, facilitate the safe return of displaced persons, and engage in a comprehensive political dialogue. According to diplomats familiar with the talks, the document will also outline a framework for future negotiations on sensitive issues such as disarmament, integration of rebels into the national army, and justice for atrocities committed during the conflict.
Congolese officials have signaled cautious optimism about the deal, emphasizing that any lasting peace must involve a genuine cessation of foreign interference and a disarmament of all armed groups operating in the region. “We welcome this step, but the people of Congo need more than words. They need actions that ensure peace, security, and justice,” said a government spokesperson in Kinshasa.
For its part, the M23 rebel leadership has expressed willingness to participate in the peace process, while continuing to demand protection for Tutsi communities and political reforms in Congo. The group claims that it took up arms again in late 2021 due to the Congolese government’s failure to implement previous peace accords signed in 2013. Since then, M23 has become one of the most powerful non-state actors in eastern DRC, capturing key towns and military positions.
International reaction to the planned agreement has been largely positive. The United Nations, which maintains one of the world’s largest peacekeeping missions in the Congo (MONUSCO), said it supports all efforts to de-escalate tensions and restore stability. The African Union Chairperson welcomed the development as a “crucial step toward lasting peace in the Great Lakes region.”
Still, many challenges remain. Trust between the parties is low, and several previous ceasefire attempts have failed. Armed groups allied with or opposing the M23 remain active, and the involvement of regional powers adds complexity to any negotiated settlement. Human rights groups are also demanding accountability for war crimes, warning that peace without justice may only delay further conflict.