DRC releases first group of prisoners to M23 in peace effort
Congolese authorities have transferred 15 detainees to the M23 rebel group, marking the first prisoner exchange since the Doha prisoner-swap agreement was signed in 2025. The transfer, coordinated by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), represents a significant step forward in peace initiatives across eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.
First implementation of the Doha agreement
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) confirmed the handover of 15 prisoners from Congolese authorities to M23. While identities remain undisclosed, officials confirm this operation aligns with the prisoner-exchange mechanism finalized in Doha during September 2025. The agreement, previously stalled due to ongoing disputes, gained renewed momentum following discussions held in Switzerland earlier this year.
Transit through Uganda
The detainees departed from Beni, a government-controlled city in North Kivu, before transiting through Uganda to reach M23-held territory. The ICRC ensured strict adherence to health protocols amid a fresh Ebola outbreak in eastern DRC.
Ongoing conflict in eastern DRC
M23 has controlled vast territories in North Kivu and Ituri for years. Kinshasa accuses Rwanda of arming the group, a claim Kigali denies. This prisoner release signals a tentative confidence-building measure, though lasting peace remains elusive after decades of violent instability.
