AFC/M23's deputy coordinator, Bertrand Bisimwa, confirmed that his group's delegation would focus on key issues including a permanent ceasefire and the release of prisoners.
'As part of the implementation of the Declaration of Principles of July 19, 2025, a technical team from our Movement will travel to Doha to examine the practical arrangements for the application of the ceasefire and the release of prisoners in accordance with the said declaration,' he shared on X.
The Congolese government also announced that it would send its own representatives, stressing that their mandate is to protect national interests during the discussions.
According to the timeline agreed in Qatar, both sides were expected to meet their commitments by July 29, paving the way for peace talks scheduled to begin no later than August 8. Chief among these commitments was the permanent suspension of hostilities. However, despite the agreement, the two parties have continued to accuse one another of violations.
Tensions have further deepened over the question of detainees. AFC/M23 accuses the Congolese government of refusing to release around 700 peopleâ€"including its members and suspected supporters. Kinshasa insists the prisoners will only be freed after a final peace deal is signed.
As a result, peace talks failed to open on August 8, and the broader agreement, initially expected by August 18, was not signed. Qatar, acting as mediator, has acknowledged the setbacks but says it remains in close contact with both parties to encourage consensus.
While AFC/M23 has agreed to send a delegation to Doha, it has emphasized that the mission's mandate will be strictly limited. This stance signals that the group is holding firm on its demand that prisoners be released before it fully commits to peace negotiations.
IGIHE
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/drc-and-afc-m23-to-send-delegations-to-qatar
