Parties involved in the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo have reached an agreement to exchange prisoners, marking a key step in ongoing peace efforts.
The deal was signed on April 14, 2026, in Montreux, Switzerland, following five days of negotiations between the government in Kinshasa and the AFC/M23.
According to both sides, the exchange is expected to take place within the next 10 days. A total of 311 detainees held by AFC/M23 and 166 held by the government are set to be released under the agreement.
While this development is seen as progress, similar commitments have previously failed. In September 2025, a planned exchange did not materialize after Kinshasa reportedly did not act on a list submitted by AFC/M23, which included some of its members.
The talks, attended by representatives from United States, Qatar, Togo, Switzerland, and the African Union, also focused on implementing the Doha agreement signed on November 15, 2025.
Both parties reported progress, particularly regarding prisoner releases and the establishment of a mechanism to monitor the ceasefire. A joint verification body, known as MCVE+, is expected to begin operations next week.
They also agreed to facilitate urgent humanitarian assistance for civilians affected by the conflict and to avoid attacks on critical infrastructure, including food supplies, water systems, communication networks, energy facilities, hospitals, and schools.
Despite the agreement, tensions remain high. Shortly after leaving Switzerland, an AFC/M23 spokesperson accused the Kinshasa government of acting in bad faith and misleading both citizens and the international community.
The spokesperson alleged that government forces launched coordinated attacks on populated areas including Chambombo, Kumadepo, and Bulengero in Kalehe territory on Friday.
According to the group, the attacks resulted in casualties, displacement of civilians, and destruction of infrastructure—raising concerns about the fragility of the ceasefire and the path toward lasting peace.
KIGALI TIMES