Arsenal is criticized by the DRC government for not meeting with its foreign minister, who raised concerns about Rwanda’s support for the M23 militia. Wagner, the minister, offered to discuss the sponsorship deal, but Arsenal did not respond. Other clubs, such as Bayern Munich, have addressed similar issues proactively, while the DRC is urging action against Rwanda’s military involvement.
Arsenal Football Club faces criticism from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) government for not engaging with its foreign minister regarding a sponsorship deal with Visit Rwanda. Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner visited London to express concerns about Rwanda’s support for the M23 militia and sought a meeting with Arsenal representatives, which did not occur.
Wagner reported, “We offered to meet Arsenal, but they didn’t reach out or take us up on the offer. We have not received an answer. Apparently, they are not interested in meeting us.” This perceived disregard is seen as an affront to the club’s fanbase in the DRC.
In contrast, Bayern Munich, another club with a similar sponsorship agreement, responded proactively by sending staff to Rwanda to assess the situation and remained in touch with its foreign ministry. Wagner previously urged Arsenal to reevaluate its relationship with Visit Rwanda, calling it a “bloodstained” agreement.
The partnership with Visit Rwanda, commencing in 2021, is reportedly valued at £10 million annually. Rwanda’s president, Paul Kagame, remains closely tied to military operations in the region, where Rwandan forces are alleged to be supporting M23 rebels, despite the government’s denials of involvement.
Recent reports indicate significant troop losses for Rwanda linked to the ongoing conflicts, with humanitarian crises intensifying as thousands of people flee the violence. The European Parliament has begun calling for responses, including potential cuts to budget support for Rwanda.
Wagner conveyed her frustration regarding the impacts of international condemnations, suggesting ineffective measures against President Kagame’s administration. Meetings with UK officials have occurred, focusing on exploring various options for sanctions and actions to address the violence and extraction of resources in the DRC.
Paris St-Germain is similarly under scrutiny for its sponsorship with Visit Rwanda, as calls for reconsideration rise. Meanwhile, the DRC has urged Formula One to cancel discussions regarding a potential race in Rwanda, warning of reputational damage by association with the country’s government.
Arsenal’s involvement with Visit Rwanda began in May 2018, and the sponsorship is highly visible, including logo placements on team apparel and stadium advertising. Noteworthy club figures have previously traveled to Rwanda to promote the deal, but Arsenal has not issued a public comment regarding the recent situation.
The situation surrounding Arsenal’s sponsorship with Visit Rwanda illustrates rising tensions between sports partnerships and political actions. The DRC’s foreign minister’s attempts to engage with Arsenal highlight concerns over Rwanda’s involvement in regional conflicts. Other European clubs are responding to similar scrutiny by reevaluating their associations, while Arsenal remains silent on the criticisms directed at its ongoing deal.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
