The M23 rebel group has warned that it may boycott next month’s peace talks in Doha unless the Congolese government fulfills its commitment to release prisoners, a key clause in the Declaration of Principles signed earlier this month.
Speaking at a press briefing, M23’s permanent secretary and negotiator, Benjamin Mbonimpa, insisted that continued detention of their members undermines the peace roadmap, which is expected to culminate in a permanent agreement by August 18.
Although the agreement, brokered by Qatar, initially led to a ceasefire, hostilities have resumed between M23 and the Wazalendo militia allied with the Congolese army.
Mbonimpa blamed Kinshasa and its proxy forces for renewed clashes in North and South Kivu, warning that M23 will remain on the defensive.
In Goma, where hopes briefly rose after the agreement, residents say they have yet to see real change.
Many are calling for a genuine commitment to peace, as direct negotiations are set to resume on August 8.