The DRC has summoned Uganda’s Acting Chargé d’Affaires to clarify recent remarks by General Kainerugaba regarding foreign mercenaries in eastern DRC, which may jeopardize diplomatic relations. Kainerugaba warned of military action against mercenaries starting January 2025, prompting questions from the DRC government. Despite the tensions, he expressed a desire for peace and plans to visit President Tshisekedi.
On December 18, 2024, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) summoned Uganda’s Acting Chargé d’Affaires, Mr. Matata Twaha Magara, to address recent contentious remarks made by General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Commander-in-Chief of the Uganda Defense Forces. The summons, initiated by Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, primarily concerns General Kainerugaba’s statements regarding foreign mercenaries purportedly operating in eastern DRC, which have raised questions about the relations between the two nations.
General Kainerugaba, via social media, issued a stern warning to mercenaries in the region, stating on December 16, 2024, “I’m going to give only ONE WARNING to ALL white mercenaries operating in eastern DRC. From 2nd January 2025, we will attack all mercenaries in our area of operations.” He also emphasized that there would not be any white mercenaries remaining in DRC by the start of the following year, reflecting a significant escalation in rhetoric. The DRC government has clarified that individuals associated with foreign groups, like the Agemira group from Bulgaria and RALF from Romania, are not mercenaries but are engaged as trainers to boost the capabilities of the Congolese national army (FARDC) against the M23 rebel forces.
Recognizing the potential impact of these remarks, the DRC Foreign Affairs Ministry sought a formal clarification from Uganda regarding the comments made by General Kainerugaba. The ministry’s statement underscored the need for an official response to maintain diplomatic relations. In a subsequent post, General Kainerugaba suggested a desire for peace by expressing his intention to visit President Tshisekedi in Kinshasa soon, reflecting a shift towards reconciliation despite the prevailing tensions.
The diplomatic circumstances between Uganda and the DRC are complicated by broader regional dynamics, particularly Rwanda’s recent accusations against DRC regarding mercenaries aiming to destabilize its government. Kinshasa has, in turn, accused Rwanda of backing M23 rebels, complicating any prospects for resolution. The developments in these nations highlight the precarious nature of their relationships, with the risk of further strain looming amid accusations and counter-accusations.
The tensions between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda have been exacerbated by regional conflicts and accusations of foreign involvement in domestic unrest. The presence of mercenaries in eastern DRC, linked to foreign governments, has raised concerns from the DRC authorities, who argue that these operatives are essential trainers aiding the Congolese military against rebel groups. Diplomatic interactions are critical in resolving misunderstandings and fostering peace, especially against the backdrop of Rwanda’s accusations of DRC’s destabilizing actions and the ongoing threat posed by the M23 rebels. Furthermore, General Kainerugaba’s recent statements reflect a mix of military posturing and a complicated desire for improved diplomatic relations, underscoring the fragile stability in this region.
In conclusion, the recent summons of Uganda’s envoy by the DRC reflects the complex diplomatic landscape in Central Africa. General Kainerugaba’s provocative statements concerning mercenaries in eastern DRC have raised serious concerns about bilateral relations, calling for urgent clarifications from Uganda. As both countries navigate these tensions amid broader regional challenges, the importance of dialogue and reconciliation remains paramount in fostering stability.
Original Source: chimpreports.com
