In a Telegram message from FARDC leadership, soldiers were reminded to respect the ongoing peace process and abide by the agreed ceasefire terms.
The directive further emphasised that while soldiers must prioritise peace, they are authorised to respond with proportionate force if attacked by the enemy.
The DRC government and AFC/M23 signed a declaration of principles in Qatar on July 19, 2025, aimed at ending the fighting in eastern DRC. The agreement serves as a roadmap toward a comprehensive peace deal.
The deal calls for a complete cessation of hostilities, with each side remaining within its current areas of control and refraining from attempting to seize new territory.
However, despite the commitments, government-backed Wazalendo militias have repeatedly attacked AFC/M23 positions, disrupting peace in the Masisi, Rutshuru, and Walikale territories.
Last week, AFC/M23 recaptured the Mulema area in Nyamaboko 1 groupement, Masisi, from Wazalendo forces, following attacks by Wazalendo in Luke and Katobotobo.
Sources from North Kivu report that since July 29, AFC/M23 has been reinforcing its fighters in the Kateku area of Ikobo groupement in Walikale territory amid claims that the government forces are preparing for renewed conflict.
IGIHE
