A statement signed by M23 political spokesperson, Lawrence Kanyuka, indicates that the group has taken the decision in fulfillment of outcomes of consultations between M23 and Angolan President, João Lourenço in Luanda and the decision taken in different regional summits in Bujumbura, Nairobi and Addis Ababa.

All the meetings were aimed at finding a peaceful solution to the ongoing conflict in eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

“The M23 movement, hereby, declares a ceasefire from this Tuesday, March 7th, 2023 at 12:00 hours to pave the way for the political process to take place,” reads the statement.

M23 has thanked regional leaders and international partners who have made efforts to understand its problems and for endless efforts to restore peace and security in eastern DRC.

“From the foregoing, the M23 calls on other regional leaders and international partners to spare no effort in contributing to the current initiatives aimed at the restoration of peace and stability in eastern DRC and the region as a whole,” adds the statement.

M23 has reiterated commitment to peacefully resolve conflict in eastern DRC but highlighted that it ‘reserves the full right to defend itself once attacked by the DRC Government Coalition of FARDC, FDLR, NYATURA, Mai-Mai, APCLS, PARECO, NDC-R and mercenaries.

The rebel group further stated that it won’t spare any effort to protect the civilian population and their belonging.

M23 controls large swathes in eastern Congo even though it has already handed over some of captured areas to forces of the East African Community.

M23 has declared cease fire.