During an AU meeting, Rwandan President Kagame rejected accusations of Rwanda’s involvement in the DRC conflict, labeling them as attempts by Kinshasa to evade accountability. He emphasized Rwanda’s sovereignty, criticized the trivialization of historical threats, and urged the DRC to take responsibility for its internal issues as tensions rise following recent rebel activities.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame firmly denied allegations of Rwanda’s involvement in the DRC conflict during the African Union’s Peace and Security Council Meeting. He accused the Congolese leadership of not taking responsibility for their internal issues and emphasized that Rwanda cannot be blamed for Congo’s challenges. Kagame criticized the narrative of foreign interference, stating that if blaming others could resolve the situation, it would have been solved long ago.
Kagame’s comments come amidst rising tensions with the DRC, further aggravated by the recent capture of Bukavu by M23 rebels. The DRC has accused Rwanda of aiding these rebels and demanded international intervention. Despite ongoing diplomatic talks, Kagame’s firm position suggests little likelihood of Rwanda conceding to external pressure regarding the accusations.
He specifically refuted claims of Rwandan support for M23 and highlighted the threat posed by the FDLR, a group tied to the Rwandan genocide. Kagame insisted that dismissing the existence of FDLR undermines Rwanda’s historical struggles and security concerns. He stated, “When you trivialize that, you trivialize my history, and I am not going to accept it.”
Further, Kagame strongly asserted that Rwanda will not compromise its sovereignty, declaring that he does not seek permission to exist from external entities. “I will live by the fact that it is my right. Just that,” he stated, making it clear that Rwanda is prepared to address its own challenges rather than bear the burdens of the DRC’s governance failures. He challenged the DRC to take responsibility for its own issues instead of blaming Rwanda.
In summary, President Kagame’s remarks highlight Rwanda’s firm stance in the face of accusations regarding its involvement in the DRC conflict. He emphasizes the need for the DRC to acknowledge and address its internal challenges rather than seek external scapegoats. With ongoing tensions, the potential for a resolution remains uncertain, as Kagame has made it clear that Rwanda will not be coerced into accepting blame. Kagame’s defense of Rwanda’s sovereignty and his criticism of the DRC’s government underline the complex dynamics at play in the region, particularly regarding the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC and the regional efforts to mediate the situation.
Original Source: chimpreports.com
