KINSHASA — Authorities in the Democratic Republic of Congo have handed over detainees linked to the M23 rebel movement as part of confidence-building measures under an internationally mediated peace process, marking the latest step in efforts to reduce tensions in the country's conflict-hit east.
The transfer followed commitments made by the Congolese government and the Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC)/M23 coalition during negotiations backed by Qatar, the United States, the African Union and other international partners. Earlier agreements called for reciprocal prisoner releases and humanitarian measures aimed at supporting broader peace talks.
Congolese officials said the handover was carried out in accordance with mechanisms established during the negotiations. Rebel representatives had repeatedly argued that the release of detained members was a prerequisite for advancing political discussions and implementing other provisions of the peace framework.
The prisoner transfer is part of a broader package of confidence-building measures that also includes facilitating humanitarian access to conflict-affected communities, strengthening judicial protections and establishing mechanisms to monitor ceasefire commitments, according to previous joint statements issued after negotiations.
International mediators have described the implementation of those measures as essential for maintaining momentum toward a comprehensive settlement after years of fighting in eastern Congo.
The conflict intensified after M23 launched a major offensive that enabled the group to seize large areas of North and South Kivu. The Democratic Republic of Congo, the United Nations and several Western governments have accused neighboring Rwanda of backing M23, allegations Kigali has consistently denied, saying its military actions are defensive and linked to security threats posed by armed groups operating in eastern Congo.
The humanitarian consequences of the conflict remain severe, with millions displaced and aid organizations warning that continued insecurity has hampered relief operations across the region. International agencies have urged all parties to comply with international humanitarian law and ensure civilians have safe access to assistance.
Peace efforts have proceeded on multiple diplomatic tracks, including separate negotiations involving Congo and Rwanda as well as direct talks between Kinshasa and AFC/M23. Previous agreements committed both sides to prisoner releases as a means of building trust before negotiations on more contentious political and security issues.
Officials involved in the mediation process said implementation of the agreed measures, including the prisoner handover, would continue to be monitored as negotiators seek to preserve the ceasefire and advance toward a comprehensive peace agreement.
