Rwanda warns that a lack of political will and good faith from the DRC may undermine the Luanda Process aimed at restoring peace in Eastern DRC. Minister Nduhungirehe expressed concerns over DRC’s militarization and inflammatory rhetoric that contradict recent agreements. Rwanda seeks genuine cooperation to resolve ongoing conflicts as tensions escalate between the two nations.
The Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) apparent lack of political will and good faith could jeopardize the recent progress made under the Luanda Process, aimed at establishing peace in Eastern DRC and the broader Great Lakes Region. This warning was issued by Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Olivier Nduhungirehe, following a significant meeting between Rwanda and DRC officials facilitated by Angola. Despite recent agreements to combat long-standing conflicts, Rwanda has expressed concerns regarding DRC’s actions, including militarization and hostile rhetoric that contradict the commitments made during the negotiations.
Minister Nduhungirehe pointed out that despite the adoption of the Concept of Operations (CONOPS) during a Ministerial meeting, the DRC’s military actions and inflammatory statements indicate a failure to uphold their part in the peace process. He highlighted specific events, such as the increase in troops along the Eastern DRC border and continued attacks against Rwandan positions, as detrimental to the spirit of cooperation agreed upon in Angola. These developments raise serious concerns about the DRC’s true commitment to peace and stability in the region.
In his remarks, Nduhungirehe noted the dangerous implications of recent statements made by DRC officials, including President Tshisekedi’s remarks regarding constitutional revisions to alter Rwanda’s regime. Such rhetoric, coupled with hate speech directed at Rwanda and its leadership, is seen as a glaring contradiction to the peace accords. Additionally, Justice Minister Constant Mutamba’s incendiary speech in a Goma prison, inciting prisoners against Rwandans, has further exacerbated tensions between the two nations.
Rwanda remains determined to proceed with discussions under the Luanda framework but insists that cooperation from the DRC is essential for any meaningful progress. The ongoing military buildup and rhetoric from DRC officials pose significant obstacles to achieving the intended peace and stability in Eastern DRC. Rwanda is keen to address the underlying causes of conflict systematically with DRC, particularly concerning the challenges posed by various armed groups in the region, including the M23.
The conflicts in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have persisted for decades, significantly impacting regional stability. The recent Luanda Process, facilitated by Angola, aims to enhance cooperation between Rwanda and DRC to restore peace in Eastern DRC. Earlier agreements, such as the adoption of the Concept of Operations (CONOPS), serve as a framework to address key security challenges, including the neutralization of armed groups and promoting diplomatic relations. However, the implementation of these agreements hangs critically on the political will of both nations, especially the DRC’s willingness to adhere to terms of cooperation and peace.
In summary, Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs has raised alarms about the lack of political will and good faith from the DRC, which could derail vital peace agreements reached under the Luanda Process. With increased militarization and hostile rhetoric emanating from the DRC, the prospects for a peaceful resolution to the long-standing conflicts in Eastern DRC remain precarious. Continuous dialogue and cooperative efforts are essential to addressing the underlying issues and fostering stability in the region.
Original Source: www.ktpress.rw
