The FARDC rejects Rwanda’s claims of capturing FDLR Commander Ezéchiel Gakwerere, calling it a “staged operation” intended to justify military aggression. FARDC disputes the authenticity of the captured fighters and links the accusations to Rwanda’s geopolitical strategy. Allegations of war crimes are also raised against Rwanda in the context of the M23 insurgency’s destabilization of eastern DRC, reflecting escalating tensions between the two nations.
The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) have strongly contested Rwanda’s claims about the arrest and repatriation of FDLR Commander Ezéchiel Gakwerere and 14 other alleged FDLR fighters. FARDC described the event as a “staged operation” designed to legitimize Rwanda’s aggressive actions against the DRC. The assertion follows announcements from the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and M23 rebels of Gakwerere’s capture, allegedly showing the fighters in new FARDC uniforms.
FARDC Spokesperson General-Major Ekenge Bomusa Efomi Sylvain emphasized that this operation was poorly executed and intended to tarnish the reputation of both the FARDC and SADC forces. He implied that these events are part of Rwanda’s larger agenda in the region, aimed at justifying territorial encroachments in the DRC. This statement reflects growing concerns over Rwanda’s military activities in eastern Congo.
The FARDC pointed out inconsistencies regarding the identity of the captured fighters, including Patrick Ishimwe, who had already appeared in Rwandan media earlier this year. He reappeared on the list of fighters allegedly captured, raising questions about the authenticity of the purported repatriation. FARDC further alleged that the Rwandan government misled the public by utilizing previously detained individuals dressed in FARDC uniforms as a façade.
RDF has countered by asserting that these fighters, including Gakwerere, collaborated with FARDC and local militias, maintaining that intelligence sources indicate FDLR elements are active in several areas, including those controlled by M23. The DRC military claims these accusations serve Rwanda’s geopolitical motives to legitimize its military involvement in the region.
It has been alleged by FARDC that Gakwerere has long acted under Rwandan President Paul Kagame’s directives, responsible for numerous civilian massacres in Congo. The Congolese military refuted any cooperation with FDLR, declaring Rwandan claims a mere pretext to sustain military operations and support the M23 insurgency, which is destabilizing North Kivu.
Additionally, FARDC condemned the Rwandan army for alleged war crimes, including the summary execution of Congolese soldiers who were sick or wounded. They asserted such actions classify as crimes against humanity. The situation marks a continuing rise in tensions between the DRC and Rwanda, with Rwanda’s claims of targeting genocidal elements contrasting sharply with Congo’s view of M23 as a proxy for Rwanda’s territorial aspirations.
The ongoing dispute between the DRC and Rwanda underscores the complexities of regional security. FARDC has strongly refuted Rwanda’s claims of capturing FDLR fighters, labeling the event a strategic deception. Accusations of war crimes by Rwanda further complicate the situation, demonstrating the intertwined military and political tensions in eastern Congo. The future of stability in the region remains uncertain as both nations assert conflicting narratives regarding their actions and motivations.
Original Source: chimpreports.com
