DR Congo’s foreign minister accuses Rwanda of illegal occupation and attempts at regime change amidst M23 rebel activity in Goma. Rwanda’s spokeswoman denies these claims, asserting defensive operations. The Southern African Development Community is addressing the conflict, as Wagner calls for sanctions against Rwanda and a halt to Rwandan peacekeeping contributions.
Rwanda is accused of illegally occupying the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and attempting to instigate regime change, according to Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, the DRC’s foreign minister. Her assertions followed the recent capture of Goma by Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, who have threatened further advances towards the DRC’s capital, Kinshasa. Wagner criticized the lack of accountability for Rwandan President Paul Kagame regarding alleged violations of international law.
In response to these allegations, Rwanda’s government spokesperson Yolande Makolo denied any intentions of war or annexation, stating that Rwandan troops are in the DRC primarily to prevent spillover violence from impacting Rwanda. She emphasized the necessity of securing national borders amid reported cross-border attacks, asserting that the DRC must take responsibility for maintaining order within its territory.
A meeting organized by the Southern African Development Community (SADC) is set to address the ongoing situation in the DRC. The regional bloc has deployed peacekeeping forces, mainly from South Africa, to assist in combating armed groups like the M23. Unfortunately, recent clashes that included SADC soldiers and the M23 rebels have resulted in the deaths of sixteen SADC personnel.
In a disagreement with South Africa’s president, Kagame described the SADC force as inappropriate for the current circumstances in the DRC. Meanwhile, Minister Wagner advocated for suspending foreign aid to Rwanda and imposing sanctions on individuals who support the conflict. Furthermore, she called for Rwandan troops to be barred from participating in UN peacekeeping missions worldwide, highlighting Rwanda’s paradoxical role as a purported peacekeeper yet a warmonger in the Great Lakes region.
The conflict involving Rwanda and the DRC has deep historical roots, marked by ongoing tensions and violence. The M23 rebels, believed to be supported by Rwanda, have been active in eastern DRC, particularly in Goma, a city that has seen repeated clashes due to its strategic importance and mineral wealth. The international community has been concerned about Rwanda’s interventionist activities and its impact on regional stability, prompting calls for accountability and a reconsideration of its international engagement.
In summary, tensions between Rwanda and the DRC have intensified, driven by the M23 rebels’ actions and accusations of Rwandan military intervention. The DRC is calling for accountability and international support to curb foreign influence in its affairs. The situation remains precarious, necessitating diplomatic efforts and regional cooperation to restore peace and stability in the region.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
