The Democratic Republic of Congo’s military has ordered the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), a Rwandan rebel group operating in Congo’s eastern provinces, to disarm and surrender unconditionally. This directive, which calls for the militants to submit to government authorities or the UN mission, is a key step in implementing a US-brokered peace deal signed with Rwanda in June. The military emphasized a peaceful handover, urging citizens linked to the FDLR to encourage compliance and warning that refusal could trigger forced disarmament. This development occurs amidst a backdrop of mutual accusations, with Rwanda alleging Congolese army collaboration with the FDLR and Congo accusing Rwanda of backing rival M23 rebels.
AA