By Ajong Mbapndah L
The Democratic Republic of the Congo has formally accepted the principle of a ceasefire under an initiative led by João Lourenço, in a move that could reinvigorate efforts to stabilize the conflict-affected Great Lakes region.
In an official communiqué issued by the Presidency in Kinshasa, the Congolese government welcomed Angola’s sustained diplomatic engagement and commended President Lourenço’s role in advancing a framework aimed at securing a sustainable return to peace. The statement said President Félix Tshisekedi accepted the ceasefire in a spirit of responsibility and appeasement, underscoring a renewed commitment to pursuing a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
The ceasefire is anchored in the monitoring and verification mechanism established under the agreement signed in Doha on October 14, 2025. That framework provides for a structured system to oversee compliance and address incidents, with the objective of ensuring an effective, controlled, and lasting cessation of hostilities. Under the terms outlined, there will be a strict and immediate freeze of military positions, a halt to reinforcements and offensive rotations, and the suspension of any logistical supply movements linked to combat operations. The agreement also prohibits attempts to alter the status quo on the ground and calls for an end to any external support to armed groups operating within Congolese territory.
Kinshasa emphasized that the protection of civilians and full respect for international humanitarian law are central to the ceasefire’s implementation. The communiqué made clear that any unilateral effort to consolidate positions or shift the balance of forces during the ceasefire period would seriously undermine the credibility of the process and weaken prospects for durable peace.
By aligning itself with the Angola-led initiative, the Congolese government signaled readiness to engage in a coordinated regional effort aimed at de-escalation and long-term stability. Angola has increasingly positioned itself as a key diplomatic broker in Central Africa, with President Lourenço taking a proactive role in addressing tensions affecting eastern Congo and the wider Great Lakes region.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo reaffirmed that its commitment to peace remains firm but anchored in the strict respect of its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the security of its citizens. The success of the ceasefire, the Presidency noted, will depend on disciplined adherence to the agreed framework and credible monitoring mechanisms capable of preserving trust among all stakeholders.
