Uhuru brokers peace deal between Democratic Republic of Congo and M23 rebels

By PSCU

Nairobi, Kenya: Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) Government and M23, the Congolese rebel military group, Thursday signed crucial declarations vouched to bolster reconciliation, stability and development in eastern DRC.

The signing ceremony at State House Nairobi was witnessed by President Uhuru Kenyatta, the Chairman of the East African Community. Deputy President William Ruto and Foreigns Affairs Cabinet Secretary Ambassador Amina Mohamed also witnessed the historic event.

The signed declarations by the two sides in the eastern DRC conflict reflected the consensus reached during the Kampala dialogue on steps necessary to end the armed activities of M23.

Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni, the Chairman of the International Conference on the Great Lakes, and President Joyce Banda of Malawi, the current chair of SADC, signed the communique detailing the resolutions.

In its declaration, the M23 agreed to end rebellion and transform itself into a legitimate political party. It also resolved to demobilise former M23 combatants.

On its part, the DRC Government committed to give amnesty and release M23 members under detention for acts of war and rebellion. It also offered to ensure return of refugees and internally displaced persons to their homes.

M23 Chairman Bertrand Bisimwa and Foreign Affairs Minister Raymond Tshibandi signed for M23 and the DRC Government respectively while President Joseph Kabila, who was present, witnessed the signing.