DRC army and M23 rebels trade blame over clashes, troop buildup
The army statement came a day after the rebel group, known as M23, accused Congolese forces of mobilising more troops and violating the terms of a declaration of principles signed on July 19 in Doha voicing support for a permanent ceasefire.
The conflicting statements came as peace talks scheduled to resume in Doha last week have been delayed. In the declaration of principles, DRC and M23 pledged to begin talks by August 8 and aim for a final deal by August 18.
Neither side currently has delegations in Doha.
M23 leader Bertrand Bisimwa said last week that the rebels had not received an invitation to the talks.
Another rebel leader, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Reuters the group would not go to Doha "until Kinshasa begins to respect the declaration of principles, which provides for the release of our detained members".
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