The move paves the way for the implementation of a peace deal with defunct M 23 rebels.

Prospects for lasting peace in the Democratic Republic of Congo, DRC, now appear brighter after the government last weekend announced an amnesty for over 50 political opponents, including some officials of the defunct M 23 rebel movement. The pardon concerns insurgency and political crimes committed between January 2006 and December 20, 2013.

Radio France Internationale, RFI on April 21, 2014, noted that the reprieve - that was voted by Parliament last February after the Kampala, Uganda peace talks between the two sides - is expected to pave the way for a quicker implementation of the deal. Former combatants are now expected to undergo a Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration, DDR programme, with a closer follow up of scheduled activities.   

Observers say the delay in implementing the peace deal was due to the change of leadership of the International Conference On the Great Lakes Region, ICGLR, the body tasked with overseeing the process. Angola recently took over the chair from Uganda. On the other hand, DRC authorities are still said to be building confidence in the former combatants after the bloody M 23 insurgency was ended in late 2013.  

Parliament on February 4, 2014 approved the legislation granting amnesty for acts of insurgency, war and political offences, while excluding genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes. The law was welcomed by some as an important step towards lasting peace, while others said it does not go far enough to prevent impunity and recurring violence.

While the National Network of Congolese Human Rights NGOs criticised the amnesty Act, United Nations officials said it will be the “next step in bringing sustainable peace” to the region. The UN peacekeeping mission in the country, MONUSCO, said the legislation had the potential to allow ex-combatants to return home while encouraging the rehabilitation and reintegration of those who did not engage in war crimes or crimes against humanity.

The DRC army defeated M 23 rebels in November 2013 and, one month later, both parties signed declarations reflecting among others, the insurgents’ renunciation of war and their decision to transform into a legitimate political party.