M23 Rebels Agree to Ceasefire in Congo, Prepared for Political Solution
- Rebel group agreed to pact that was due to start Tuesday
- Rebels say they reserve right to defend against new attacks
Congolese army troops head toward Kibumba, Democratic Republic of Congo.
Photographer: Arlette Bashizi/AFP/Getty ImagesThis article is for subscribers only.
The M23 rebel group clashed with Democratic Republic of Congo soldiers, defying a ceasefire that was meant to go into effect Tuesday, according to the United Nations.
“The secretary-general reiterates his call on the M23 to respect the ceasefire to create conditions for its full and effective withdrawal from all occupied areas,” Farhan Haq, deputy spokesman, said in comments published on the UN’s website. “He condemns all violence against civilians and renews his call on all Congolese and foreign armed groups to lay down their weapons and disarm unconditionally.”