Fact Check: M23 rebels claim the peace agreement won't apply to them.

Fact Check: "M23 rebels claim the peace agreement won't apply to them."

What We Know

The claim that the M23 rebel group has stated the recent peace agreement between the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda does not apply to them is supported by various reports. The peace deal, signed on June 27, 2025, aims to end decades of conflict in eastern Congo, where over 100 armed groups, including M23, have been active (AP News).

M23, which has been a significant player in the conflict, has indicated that it does not recognize the legitimacy of the agreement. A spokesperson for M23, Oscar Balinda, mentioned that any agreements made without their involvement are considered invalid (AP News). This sentiment was echoed by Corneille Nangaa, leader of the Congo River Alliance, which includes M23, asserting that direct talks can only occur if the DRC acknowledges their grievances.

Analysis

The evidence supporting the claim is robust, as multiple credible sources confirm that M23 rebels have publicly stated their position regarding the peace agreement. The Associated Press, a reputable news organization, reported on the rebels' stance, highlighting their assertion that the peace deal does not apply to them due to their exclusion from the negotiations (AP News).

Furthermore, the context of the conflict is critical. The DRC has been plagued by violence for decades, and M23's rejection of the peace agreement reflects the complexities of the situation, where numerous armed groups have their own interests and grievances that are not addressed in broader negotiations. Analysts have noted that the peace deal may not lead to an immediate cessation of hostilities, particularly with M23's significant military presence and their stated refusal to adhere to the agreement (AP News).

The reliability of the sources is high, as they come from established news outlets with a history of covering international conflicts. The Associated Press is known for its journalistic integrity and thorough reporting, making its coverage of the peace agreement and the M23 rebels credible.

Conclusion

The claim that "M23 rebels claim the peace agreement won't apply to them" is True. The evidence from reputable sources confirms that M23 has explicitly stated their non-recognition of the peace agreement, asserting that any negotiations made without their involvement are invalid. This situation underscores the ongoing complexities and challenges in achieving lasting peace in the region.