Kinshasa initiates prisoner exchange with M23 in eastern DRC peace effort
Kinshasa initiates prisoner exchange with M23 in eastern DRC peace effort
Congolese authorities have transferred 15 detainees to the M23 anti-government group, which is active across the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This move marks a significant, long-anticipated step in the ongoing peace process, as confirmed by the International Red Cross on Friday.
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) released a statement confirming the transfer but did not disclose any details regarding the identities or roles of the individuals released.
Eastern DRC has been plagued by relentless violence for over three decades. The M23 rebel group has gained control over significant areas in the North Kivu and Ituri provinces since 2021, reportedly with backing from Rwanda and its military. In August 2024, Kinshasa had condemned dozens of individuals, some in absentia, to death for their alleged support of the M23.
A prisoner exchange mechanism was initially agreed upon by the Congolese government and the M23 in Doha, Qatar, in September 2025. However, disagreements between the parties had prevented its implementation until now. Earlier this April, both warring factions had reaffirmed their commitment to releasing prisoners following discussions held in Switzerland.
The ICRC facilitated the transportation of the 15 individuals, released by Congolese authorities, and their handover to the M23 between Thursday and Friday. This operation, as stated by the organization, aligns with the Doha mechanism signed in September 2025. The ICRC emphasized that the entire operation was conducted with strict adherence to Ebola prevention protocols, given the ongoing epidemic in the eastern regions of the DRC.
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