MWE Correspondent
Peace talks between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the M23 rebel group aimed at ending the long-standing conflict in eastern Congo have hit a major setback.
The rebels did not attend scheduled talks in Doha on August 18, 2025, citing the Congolese government’s failure to fully honor a previously signed ceasefire agreement as the reason for their absence.
The Doha negotiations were part of a broader mediation effort by Qatar in cooperation with the African Union and international partners to resolve the ongoing violence in eastern DRC. In July 2025, both parties signed a Declaration of Principles, committing to a ceasefire and the restoration of state authority in areas under rebel control.
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The agreement included provisions for the release of prisoners and the safe return of displaced persons, with the final peace deal expected by August 18.
Despite these agreements, M23 spokesperson Lolence Kanyuka said the rebels would not participate in further negotiations until the government implements the agreed-upon measures, particularly concerning prisoner releases. The Congolese government, while acknowledging receipt of the draft peace agreement, maintains that some terms remain subject to discussion rather than preconditions for talks.
The absence of the rebels from Doha has heightened fears of renewed fighting in eastern Congo, where M23 has made notable territorial advances in recent months, including areas near Goma and Bukavu. The United Nations has urged both sides to adhere to the ceasefire and return to the negotiating table to prevent further escalation.
