Rwanda Responds to Sweden’s Allegations Regarding DRC Conflict

The Rwandan Embassy in Stockholm has responded to Sweden’s summons regarding claims of Rwanda’s support for M23 rebels amid the DRC crisis. The embassy criticized Sweden’s silence on the persecution of Congolese Tutsis and condemned the international community’s response, emphasizing Rwanda’s security concerns related to the FDLR militia. It urged for a more impartial stance from Sweden and support for African-led mediation efforts.

The Rwandan Embassy in Stockholm has addressed a summons from Sweden’s Ministry for Foreign Affairs regarding allegations of Rwanda’s involvement in the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). In their response, the embassy emphasized Sweden’s lack of acknowledgment of the persecution faced by Congolese Tutsi communities and criticized Sweden’s partnership with Belgium on this issue. Rwanda’s ambassador has been summoned to discuss claims of support for the M23 rebels, which Rwanda has consistently denied, citing legitimate security concerns due to the presence of the FDLR militia linked to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

The FDLR, identified as a significant threat, has executed numerous attacks on Rwanda and is allegedly collaborating with the Congolese national army. In light of these threats, the Rwandan Defence Force (RDF) asserts its right to implement defensive measures to safeguard its citizens. The embassy’s statement reflects Rwanda’s stance that it will not compromise its national security or yield to external pressure.

Furthermore, the embassy criticized Sweden’s perception of the conflict, labeling it as exhibiting a double standard, especially concerning the suffering of Congolese Tutsis supported by the Congolese government’s policies. Highlighting that Sweden holds no colonial ties to Rwanda, the embassy urged Sweden to adopt an impartial diplomatic stance, contrasting with Belgium’s historical involvement.

The response pointed out the oversimplification of the DR Congo crisis, stressing that M23 is a Congolese entity addressing genuine grievances against the DRC government. The failure to uphold peace agreements has led to ongoing persecution of Kinyarwanda-speaking individuals, including the Tutsi community, exacerbating the violence in the region.

Additionally, the embassy condemned the international community’s response to the conflict, particularly the UN and European nations’ involvement. The embassy noted the ongoing cooperation between the FARDC and the FDLR despite the established UN mandates, yet no consequences have followed for the DRC government. Moreover, it referenced Sweden’s silence in condemning attacks on Rwandan territory, particularly a shelling incident from June 2022.

Amid these challenges, Rwanda remains committed to its humanitarian responsibilities, including hosting refugees and facilitating evacuations for UN personnel. Moreover, the embassy called attention to Sweden’s inactions regarding the DRC government’s recruitment of European mercenaries, emphasizing the need for vigilance and accountability.

Finally, the Rwandan embassy urged Sweden to support the African-led mediation initiatives, noting the recent reinforcement by the East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC) Summit alongside the African Union Summit. Rwanda asserted that its primary objectives are to maintain a secure border and to combat ethnic extremism, emphasizing that the root causes of conflict must be addressed to foster stability in the region.

In summary, the Rwandan Embassy in Stockholm articulated concerns over Sweden’s stance on the ongoing conflict in the DRC. The embassy highlighted the necessity for a balanced perspective concerning the DRC and called for support for African-led mediation efforts. It criticized international inaction regarding significant threats and reiterated its commitment to national security amidst ongoing regional hostilities.

Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw