Doha: The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the March 23 Movement (M23) rebel group have signed a peace framework in Doha, following mediation efforts by Qatar and the United States. The agreement, known as the Doha Framework for Comprehensive Peace, was announced by Qatari Minister of State at the Foreign Ministry, Mohammed Al-Khulaifi, who stated that it aims to establish peace and stability between Kinshasa and the M23.
According to Anadolu Agency, a Foreign Ministry statement highlighted that efforts are now being directed towards translating the framework into tangible progress on the ground. Al-Khulaifi emphasized the ongoing work to achieve peace through suitable mechanisms for implementing the agreement in the DRC. He noted that the breakthrough was achieved through the collaborative efforts of partners, including the United States, the African Union, and Togo.
Al-Khulaifi underscored the significance of the agreement as a historic opportunity, placing responsibility on both parties to adhere to the deal. Qatar’s role, he mentioned, is not to resolve every dispute at once but to establish a structured framework with core protocols for negotiation. These protocols focus on restoring state authority, governance reforms, inclusive national power-sharing arrangements, identity and citizenship issues, the return and resettlement of displaced individuals, and economic recovery with improved social services.
The comprehensive peace agreement will consist of the framework document and eight protocols, with two already signed and six more to be negotiated within two weeks from the framework’s signing. The parties agreed on the establishment of an independent commission by the Congolese government to promote truth, reconciliation, and accountability for crimes, alongside recommending reparations as part of a transitional justice process. The commission’s structure and mandate will align with the constitution and international law.
The M23 movement, accused by Kinshasa and the UN of receiving support from Rwanda-a claim Rwanda denies-has expanded its control over strategic areas in eastern DRC this year. Several regional and international mediation efforts have been undertaken, most recently led by the US, Qatar, and the African Union. On October 14, Doha hosted the signing of a monitoring and verification mechanism for a ceasefire between the DRC government and the M23.