DRC–AFC/M23 negotiations: progress reported in Switzerland but no agreement on key points

Discussions between the Congolese government and the armed group AFC/M23 ended without an agreement after five days of negotiations in Montreux, Switzerland. Despite a final communiqué mentioning progress, major disagreements persist, particularly on key issues related to the framework agreement to be signed in Doha in 2025.

According to diplomatic sources, the talks were marked by significant tension. The final text would primarily allow both sides to conclude this ninth round of negotiations without appearing to have failed, but without resolving the fundamental disagreements. The main sticking point concerns the third protocol of the agreement, which deals in particular with judicial matters and humanitarian access.

On the legal front, the AFC/M23 is demanding the lifting of death sentences against some of its members, as well as the dropping of ongoing charges. This demand has been categorically rejected by Kinshasa, even though some of those affected were participating in the discussions in Switzerland.

The disputes also extend to the economic sphere. The rebel group is demanding the reopening of banks in the areas under its control, which are currently cut off from the financial system by the Congolese authorities. It is also demanding the return of seized assets and denouncing difficulties in accessing official documents, particularly passports.

Finally, the strategic question of Goma airport remains unresolved. Kinshasa is advocating for its reopening, while the AFC/M23 fears its potential military use. Following this latest round of negotiations, progress appears limited, leaving the main points of contention unresolved and the outcome of the process uncertain.