Fact Check: M23 rebels claim peace agreement does not apply to them.

Fact Check: M23 Rebels Claim Peace Agreement Does Not Apply to Them

What We Know

On June 27, 2025, a peace agreement was signed between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda, facilitated by the United States, aimed at resolving decades of conflict in the eastern region of Congo. This agreement has been described as a significant step towards peace, with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and President Donald Trump emphasizing its importance in ending violence and fostering stability in the region (source-1, source-2).

However, the M23 rebel group, which has been a significant player in the ongoing conflict and is reportedly backed by Rwanda, has publicly stated that the peace agreement does not apply to them. M23 spokesperson Oscar Balinda indicated that any agreements made without their involvement are considered non-binding (source-1). Furthermore, Corneille Nangaa, leader of the Congo River Alliance, which includes M23, emphasized that direct negotiations can only occur if the DRC acknowledges their grievances (source-2).

Analysis

The claim that the M23 rebels assert the peace agreement does not apply to them is substantiated by multiple reports. The rebels have not been part of the negotiations leading to the agreement, which raises questions about the agreement's enforceability regarding their actions (source-1). Analysts have noted that the M23's consolidation of power in seized territories complicates the situation, as they have established local governance structures and are unlikely to withdraw without significant concessions or further negotiations (source-2).

The credibility of the sources reporting on this situation is high, as they include reputable news agencies like the Associated Press, which has a long history of covering international conflicts and has provided detailed accounts of the ongoing situation in the DRC. The analysis from political scientists and regional experts further supports the understanding that the M23's stance could hinder the peace process (source-1, source-2).

Conclusion

The claim that "M23 rebels claim peace agreement does not apply to them" is True. The evidence from multiple credible sources indicates that the M23 group has explicitly stated that they do not recognize the peace agreement as binding due to their exclusion from the negotiation process. This situation presents significant challenges to the implementation of the peace deal and the broader goal of achieving lasting peace in the region.

Sources

1. Congo and Rwanda sign US-mediated peace deal
2. Trump helped these African countries sign a peace deal. ...
3. DR Congo and Rwanda to sign peace agreement on June 27
4. Joint Declaration Between DRC Government and M23: A Fragile Glow in the ...
5. Historic Peace Deal Signed Between DRC Government and M23 Rebels in ...