DRC Government and AFC/M23 Peace Talks Open Amid Rising Tensions

Switzerland April 14, 2026 - Peace talks between the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the AFC/M23 alliance opened in Switzerland on April 13, 2026, but began in a tense atmosphere marked by disagreement over delegation composition and allegations of continued violence in eastern Congo. The discussions, facilitated by international partners including Qatar, the United States, and the United Nations peacekeeping mission in the DRC (MONUSCO), brought together representatives from both sides in an effort to revive stalled peace efforts in the region. Delegations and early tensions The AFC/M23 delegation was led by its Permanent Secretary, Benjamin Mbonimpa, and included six representatives accompanied by six additional experts, some of whom previously served in senior government positions under both former President Joseph Kabila and current President Félix Tshisekedi. Among the experts present were Claude Ibalanky Ekolomba, former ambassador and coordinator of the national monitoring mechanism for the Addis Ababa Peace Agreements, and Franck Mwe di Malila, former minister of tourism and deputy foreign minister. The inclusion of former senior Congolese officials reportedly surprised members of the government delegation, which had expected a more strictly defined AFC/M23 representation. Sources familiar with the negotiations indicated that AFC/M23’s participation had initially been contested by the government side, but was ultimately accepted as part of the mediation framework. Review of prior agreements Before substantive negotiations began, participants reviewed the implementation of earlier agreements, including commitments on ceasefire arrangements, monitoring mechanisms, and the release of detainees-several of which were reported to have been only partially implemented. Discussions also focused on humanitarian access in eastern DRC, including proposals to facilitate aid delivery and reopen Goma airport as a key logistical hub. MONUSCO officials had previously raised the issue during a visit to Goma in February 2026, while international partners, including France, had also supported limited humanitarian flight operations through the airport. Renewed accusations of violence While talks were underway in Switzerland, AFC/M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka issued statements alleging renewed military activity by government forces in eastern DRC on April 13. He claimed that clashes and drone strikes targeted several areas in North Kivu and South Kivu provinces, including Kalehe, Masisi, and Minembwe territories. According to AFC/M23, government forces used drones in multiple locations, resulting in civilian casualties and renewed insecurity in affected communities. The Congolese government has not independently confirmed these allegations. Fragile diplomatic context The talks in Switzerland reflect ongoing international efforts to stabilize eastern DRC, where multiple armed groups continue to operate despite repeated ceasefire agreements. However, the opening session highlighted persistent mistrust between the parties, with both sides exchanging accusations of violations even as negotiations were being initiated. Mediators have urged restraint and continued engagement, emphasizing the importance of maintaining dialogue despite ongoing tensions on the ground.