The ceasefire was normally scheduled for yesterday at 12pm in the Democratic Republic of Congo after negotiations between the M23 leaders and the Angolan president who received the mediation mandate from the regional heads of state last February during a mini-summit on peace held in Addis Ababa.
The reality reported by some media on the ground is that the M23 has not yet put its weapons away, even after the ceasefire came into effect. Moreover, fighting has continued in the area around Goma, causing civilians to flee.
The M23 has previously announced ceasefire agreements on multiple occasions. While stating its commitment to refrain from initiating further hostilities, the group has explicitly asserted its entitlement to exercise self-defense measures in the event of any assaults on its positions.
In addition, the movement is waiting for the opening of a direct dialogue with the government, which the DRC refuses, demanding UN sanctions and the withdrawal of rebel fighters from all occupied areas.