ICRC Meets Defense Minister as Prisoner Exchange Process Moves Forward

DRC March 13, 2026 - Efforts to advance the prisoner exchange process between the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo and the AFC/M23 rebellion received renewed attention following a meeting in Kinshasa between the Deputy Prime Minister of Defense and François Moreillon, head of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) delegation. The discussions focused on the release and transfer of prisoners of war in eastern DRC within the framework of the Doha mediation process, where the ICRC acts as a neutral intermediary. The Congolese Defense Minister commended the organization’s humanitarian commitment and expressed support for its role in protecting the lives and dignity of victims of armed conflict. François Moreillon подчеркнул that the ICRC has been active in the country for more than 40 years, working closely with national institutions, including the Ministry of Defense, and facilitating operations linked to detainees and international humanitarian law. He reiterated that the organization stands ready to assist in any transfer operation, provided there is agreement between all parties. This meeting comes days after the AFC/M23 announced the release of more than 5,000 FARDC soldiers, captured on various frontlines and handed over to the ICRC in Rumangabo, located in Rutshuru Territory. According to the group, these soldiers are to be repatriated to Kinshasa under ICRC supervision. The ICRC confirmed its readiness to facilitate this transfer, recalling its previous role in May 2025, when more than 1,300 disarmed soldiers were successfully transferred from Goma to Kinshasa. The prisoner exchange forms part of broader confidence-building measures agreed upon within the Doha process, aimed at easing tensions and promoting dialogue. However, the process remains fragile. The AFC/M23 accuses Kinshasa of refusing to release detained fighters, including individuals allegedly arrested arbitrarily, and of continuing ceasefire violations. Despite these challenges, the involvement of the ICRC represents a significant step toward de-escalation, although the success of the process will depend on mutual trust and the effective implementation of commitments by both sides in a context of ongoing conflict.