The M23 rebel movement warned on July 25 it will skip next month’s Doha negotiations unless Kinshasa frees hundreds of detainees it says should have been released under this month’s declaration of principles.
Speaking at a July 25 press briefing, M23 permanent secretary and negotiator Benjamin Mbonimpa said: “What will we do in Doha if our prisoners are not yet released? The declaration says this clause must be implemented before moving on.”
The Qatari‑brokered roadmap, signed July 19, sets an Aug. 18 deadline for a final accord, with formal talks due to open by Aug. 8 and key “immediate measures” — including prisoner releases — slated for completion by July 29.
Despite the ceasefire, clashes between M23 and Wazalendo militias allied to the Congolese army have intensified across North and South Kivu, each side trading violation claims. Mbonimpa insisted M23 remains on the defensive: “If Wazalendo attack us, we will declare Kinshasa responsible.”
In Goma — seized by M23 in January — residents say hopes raised by the Doha signing are fading. “We’re still waiting for real change,” said Amani Safari. Another resident, Bisimwa Alame, urged a deal “so the country can return to peace.”
If Kinshasa moves on prisoner releases before July 29, the Aug. 8 Doha round could proceed. If not, the process risks another collapse.