In a statement shared via X by the U.S. Senior Advisor for Africa, Massad Boulos, on Saturday, the ongoing efforts through the Doha peace process were highlighted as a step forward in promoting peace and stability in the eastern DRC.
Boulos emphasized that both parties had made notable strides in demonstrating their shared commitment to peace, noting that this progress should not be jeopardized by recent violations of the ceasefire agreement.
Despite the ceasefire agreement signed in April 2025, fighting has continued in the North and South Kivu provinces, with both sides engaged in heavy attacks.
In mid-October, the DRC government and AFC/M23 agreed to establish a joint monitoring mechanism to ensure the ceasefire's implementation. However, fighting has persisted, raising concerns over the fragility of the peace process.
Major General Sylvain Ekenge, the spokesperson for Congolese military, recently justified the continued fighting stating that his forces were retaliating against attacks from AFC/M23.
AFC/M23 also accuses Kinshasa of violating ceasefire with recurrent strikes to their positions and populated areas. This back-and-forth has fueled further instability, undermining efforts to create a peaceful environment for negotiations.
Boulos expressed concern that violations of the ceasefire could derail the significant strides made thus far, urging all parties to adhere to their commitments made in Doha.
"All must honor their commitments made in Doha, including maintaining the ceasefire and fully engaging the ceasefire monitoring mechanism to rebuild trust and reduce tensions on the ground," he said.
Boulos also highlighted the potential for lasting peace and prosperity in the region if both the DRC government and AFC/M23 continue to demonstrate sustained effort in the peace process.
IGIHE
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/u-s-urges-drc-and-afc-m23-to-uphold-ceasefire-commitment
