Rwanda’s envoy Dr. Diane Gashumba emphasized that blaming Rwanda for the DRC crisis while neglecting M23’s grievances will not foster peace. The M23 movement seeks to protect Kinyarwanda-speaking Congolese Tutsi from persecution. She urged Nordic leaders to engage in fair diplomacy that acknowledges historical contexts and supports African-led solutions as essential for lasting stability in the Great Lakes region.
Dr. Diane Gashumba, Rwanda’s Ambassador to Sweden and other Nordic nations, has stressed that ignoring the grievances of the M23 movement while blaming Rwanda for the ongoing security crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) will not lead to peace. The conflict, which has persisted for over 30 years and involves numerous armed groups, is often oversimplified, placing the blame unfairly on Rwanda and M23.
The M23 rebel movement, which currently controls the provincial capitals of Goma and Bukavu, advocates for the protection of Kinyarwanda-speaking Congolese Tutsi who have faced longstanding persecution by the Congolese government. In response to the DRC government’s accusations of Rwandan support for these rebels, Gashumba highlighted Rwanda’s security concerns regarding the DRC’s alleged ties with the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) and escalating threats from President Felix Tshisekedi.
Gashumba criticized Nordic countries for accepting a biased narrative that overlooked the region’s complex historical and political dynamics. She emphasized the need for true engagement in finding solutions that address the root issues of the crisis, advocating for the participation of all relevant parties and adherence to African-led initiatives, such as the East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC) summit resolutions.
These summit resolutions urge DRC’s government to engage in direct talks with M23 and other armed groups, cease hostilities, and implement strategies for neutralizing FDLR. Gashumba pointed out that a neutral and fair approach from Nordic leaders is essential for reaffirming their commitment to justice and enhancing their foreign policy credibility.
She warned against the consequences of diplomacy characterized by double standards, noting that such practices undermine trust. “Scapegoating Rwanda while ignoring the suffering and legitimate grievances of M23 will not bring peace to the DRC. If the Nordics truly seek stability in the Great Lakes region, they must act with integrity—pursuing justice over geopolitical interests.”
Since its resurgence in 2021, the M23 rebellion has seen a coalition of the DRC government, FDLR, and additional military forces combating the rebel group. M23 is now part of the Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC), formed in December 2023, which aims to promote good governance and address issues such as tribalism and corruption within the DRC.
In conclusion, Dr. Diane Gashumba’s remarks underscore the complexity of the DRC’s conflict and the necessity for a balanced approach that acknowledges the grievances of M23 and the broader Congolese community. She urges Nordic countries to move beyond politically expedient narratives and support comprehensive solutions that promote justice and stability in the region.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw
