Jeune Afrique reports that the text, shared with both parties on August 14, details security arrangements, transitional governance, and political reforms â€" but sharp disagreements remain.
The draft comes after the Doha Principles were signed on July 19, in which both sides pledged to reach a final deal by August 18. That deadline passed without an accord, though Doha insists negotiations are ongoing.
'Although the August 18 deadline was not met, both parties responded positively to the facilitator and expressed their willingness to continue,' a Qatari official told Jeune Afrique.
Security and humanitarian measures
The draft seen by the publication outlines a three-phase conflict resolution process expected to take at least seven months after signing. The first phase prioritises humanitarian relief and security, with the establishment of an 'interim special force' under the Interior Ministry.
Half of its members would be drawn from 'eligible' M23 fighters, working alongside elements of the national police. The force would operate only in affected areas of North and South Kivu, before its members are eventually integrated into the army and police.
To ensure compliance, the draft establishes a multilateral monitoring mechanism co-managed by the DRC and M23, with Qatar and the African Union (AU), serving as observers.
Return of state authority
Perhaps the most sensitive provision concerns the restoration of state authority in areas controlled by M23. The plan envisions the Congolese government appointing interim local authorities, while allowing for candidates proposed by M23. These transitional administrations would govern until elections scheduled for 2027.
Kinshasa insists this requires a full rebel withdrawal, while M23 argues it will not abandon what it calls 'liberated' zones. The group has also voiced frustration that its federalism project, denounced by the government as 'balkanization', is absent from the draft.
Political dialogue
The agreement also calls for a national dialogue in 2026, long demanded by Congolese opposition groups and backed by religious leaders. However, political analysts note that the recent formation of a new government has further delayed prospects for such talks.
Prisoner release dispute
The release of hundreds of prisoners remains a sticking point. M23 has demanded it as a precondition for resuming talks, but Kinshasa insists it will only act after a final deal. While the Qatari draft includes the measure, the government has yet to concede.
Despite the hurdles, both sides are preparing for a fresh round of negotiations in Doha. A Congolese delegation and M23 representatives are expected to participate.
Wycliffe Nyamasege
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/inside-qatar-s-proposed-peace-agreement-between-kinshasa-and-m23
