The Rwandan government has summoned the UK High Commissioner over false claims by UK Minister Lord Collins linking Rwanda to the ADF, a terrorist group. Rwanda rejected these accusations, asserting its commitment to counterterrorism and demanding a public apology from the UK. The incident reflects escalating tensions between Rwanda and the UK regarding the conflict in eastern DRC and highlights Rwanda’s counterterrorism efforts.
The Rwandan government has summoned Alison Thorpe, the United Kingdom’s High Commissioner to Kigali, in response to comments made by UK Minister for Africa, Lord Collins of Highbury. The remarks incorrectly linked Rwanda to the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a terrorist organization associated with ISIS/Daesh operating in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda. Rwanda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned these statements as “false, insulting, and dangerous.”
During a parliamentary session on February 26, Lord Collins mentioned that Rwanda’s Foreign Minister had “actively denied and refuted these accusations” regarding an ADF attack. However, the Rwandan government vehemently rejected this claim, clarifying that the ADF was not discussed in the mentioned Geneva meeting, asserting the group operates far from Rwanda’s borders.
Rwanda firmly dismissed any insinuation of its involvement with the ADF, highlighting its active counterterrorism efforts in Cabo Delgado, Mozambique, where it collaborates with local forces against ISIS-linked militants. The Rwandan government criticized Lord Collins’ comments as “dangerous and irresponsible,” accusing him of perpetuating misinformation that detracts from African-led peace initiatives.
The diplomatic dispute comes amid increased tensions between Rwanda and the UK, particularly following London’s recent sanctions against Kigali for its alleged support of the M23 rebellion in the eastern DRC. The UK has enacted targeted sanctions, suspended military cooperation, and exerted diplomatic pressure on Rwanda regarding its involvement in the conflict.
While Lord Collins privately acknowledged his mistake and committed to clarifying it in writing, Rwanda deemed this response inadequate. The Rwandan government has formally requested a public correction and an official apology from the UK to mitigate the spread of misinformation. This incident illustrates the deepening divide between Rwanda and Western nations concerning the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC.
In summary, Rwanda’s summoning of the UK High Commissioner represents a significant diplomatic response to Lord Collins’ controversial comments linking the nation with the ADF. Rwanda’s rejection of these accusations, combined with its appeal for a public apology, illustrates the heightened sensitivities surrounding the conflict in the DRC and the complexities of Rwanda-UK relations. This incident underscores the challenges in fostering cooperation amid assertions and perceived threats within the region.
Original Source: chimpreports.com
