The Eastern Congo rebel alliance, which includes the M23 rebels, has declared a ceasefire starting February 4, citing humanitarian concerns.
The Congo River Alliance, as the coalition is known, made the announcement in a statement on Monday, emphasizing that the decision was taken to address the humanitarian crisis in areas under its control.
In an official communiqué issued on February 3, M23 reiterated its commitment to protecting civilians, blaming the crisis on the Kinshasa regime.
“The Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC/M23) hereby informs the public that, in response to the humanitarian crisis caused by the Kinshasa regime, it declares a ceasefire starting February 4, 2025, for humanitarian reasons,” the statement read.
The ceasefire comes amid escalating tensions, following the rebel group’s capture of Goma, the largest city in eastern Congo, last week.
However, M23 has denied having any plans to take Bukavu, South Kivu’s provincial capital, despite reports of its forces advancing toward the city.
Meanwhile, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has vowed to reinforce South African National Defence Force (SANDF) troops deployed under the Southern African Development Community Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC).
He condemned the recent attacks that left 14 South African soldiers dead and called on Rwanda to withdraw its forces from Congolese territory, accusing Kigali of backing M23—a claim Rwanda denies.
Western nations, including the United States and the United Kingdom, have also pressured Rwanda to end hostilities and pull its troops out of DRC. The UK has warned Kigali that it risks losing its $1 billion annual global aid package if Rwandan troops remain in the country.
The international community has raised concerns that the conflict could escalate into a broader regional crisis, with calls for urgent diplomatic intervention.
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cc: Daily Post Ng
