DRC announces plan to begin disarming FDLR under regional peace commitments

Kinshasa, DR Congo, March 30, 2026 - The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) have announced plans to begin disarming the FDLR armed group as part of ongoing regional peace and security arrangements. The group, composed of remnants of former FAR soldiers and Interahamwe militia linked to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, has long been cited by Rwanda as a persistent security threat operating in eastern DRC. Military officials say the disarmament operation will start with calls for voluntary surrender, followed by enforced disarmament if necessary, with designated reception sites reportedly being prepared in Kisangani. Deputy Chief of Staff Jacques Ychaligonza Nduru said the army’s objective is to avoid bloodshed while ensuring all fighters lay down their weapons. The move aligns with provisions of the Washington peace agreement signed in December 2025, which links security normalization steps to the dismantling of armed groups in the region. Rwanda’s ambassador to the United Nations, Martin Ngoga, has previously reiterated that the FDLR remains a serious security concern due to its ideological roots and continued activity in eastern DRC. Analysts warn that implementation may be complex, citing longstanding accusations of infiltration and integration of armed elements into local security structures. Authorities in the region say successful disarmament could mark a significant step toward reducing tensions in the Great Lakes region, though challenges remain over verification and coordination.