In a statement signed by Deputy Coordinator Corneille Nangaa, published by Actualité.CD, the insurgents expressed their commitment to “implement, without delay and in good faith, the mechanism agreed upon within the framework of the Doha process,” but also accused Kinshasa of fragmenting the peace initiatives.

They added that the AFC/M23’s response reflects a sense of political responsibility and a sincere desire to achieve a negotiated, lasting, and inclusive solution to the conflict.

While the DRC government is pursuing a “strategy of diplomatic fragmentation,” characterized by the proliferation of parallel frameworks and initiatives, outside of a centralized and consensual process.

“This approach undermines the coherence of mediation efforts, weakens the credibility of commitments made, and risks delaying the emergence of a serious and lasting political solution,” the statement said.

It pointed out a clear contradiction between the announcement of adherence to the ceasefire call and the continued acts of belligerence on the ground, marked by offensives against densely populated areas, the use of mercenaries, and indiscriminate bombings affecting civilian populations.

“For the AFC/M23, Kinshasa’s supposed acceptance of the ceasefire principle is nothing more than a public relations maneuver and an attempt at manipulation to deceive national and international public opinion, evade its responsibilities, and mask the continuation of a decidedly militaristic strategy,” the statement affirmed.

abo/arm/mem/kmg