DRC Army Denounces Rwanda’s Claims of FDLR Capture as Fabricated Stunt

The FARDC has rejected Rwanda’s claims of capturing FDLR Commander Ezéchiel Gakwerere, labeling them a staged operation. FARDC criticized inconsistencies in the reported captures, particularly concerning previously reported individuals. The DRC military argues that these accusations align with Rwanda’s broader agenda and justifications for their military presence in eastern Congo, amidst escalating tensions related to the M23 rebellion.

The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) have categorically disputed claims by Rwanda regarding the arrest of FDLR Commander Ezéchiel Gakwerere and 14 other alleged FDLR combatants. FARDC labeled the operation a “staged” event designed to rationalize Rwanda’s military aggression against the DRC. This response followed statements from the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and M23 rebels, asserting the capture of Gakwerere, also known as Sibo Stany, along with individuals supposedly wearing FARDC uniforms.

FARDC spokesperson General-Major Ekenge Bomusa Efomi Sylvain criticized the authenticity of the alleged repatriation, emphasizing contradictions in the list of supposed captured fighters. He stated, “This action is a poorly executed fabrication aimed at discrediting our army and the SADC forces.” Furthermore, he highlighted an inconsistency concerning Patrick Ishimwe, who had previously appeared in Rwandan media prior to his alleged capture.

FARDC accused Rwandan authorities of manipulating the situation by supposedly taking former FDLR prisoners from Gitarama Central Prison, outfitting them in new FARDC uniforms, and falsely presenting them as FDLR fighters arrested in Goma. The RDF maintains that these alleged FDLR operatives were collaborating with FARDC, Wazalendo, and SAMIDRC mercenaries, asserting that intelligence reports indicate some FDLR elements have fled to various regions while others are still in M23-controlled territories.

As tensions between the DRC and Rwanda escalate, the Congolese military asserts that these allegations serve Rwanda’s broader geopolitical strategy to justify further military involvement in eastern Congo. They assert, “According to reliable and credible sources, the notorious FDLR General Gakwerere has long been serving under Paul Kagame.” FARDC firmly denies any collaboration with the FDLR, calling such allegations a pretext to sustain Rwanda’s military presence in the region.

In summary, the FARDC’s strong denial of Rwanda’s claims regarding the capture and repatriation of FDLR members emphasizes rising tensions and allegations of deception. The DRC military articulates concerns about Rwanda’s ambitions in the region, framing the situation not only as a local conflict but as part of broader geopolitical dynamics. Allegations of war crimes committed by Rwandan forces further exacerbate this contentious relationship.

Original Source: chimpreports.com