Rwanda Criticizes Germany and Canada Over DRC Conflict Responses

Rwanda has strongly criticized Germany for politicizing development and accused Canada of neglecting its security concerns related to the DRC conflict. The Rwandan government asserts that both countries are overlooking critical issues and responsibilities, particularly relating to the DRC’s military violations and the actions of the FDLR militia. Rwanda reaffirms its commitment to national security amid rising diplomatic tensions.

The Rwandan government has voiced strong criticism against both Germany and Canada regarding their stances on the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) conflict, accusing them of bias and neglecting Rwanda’s security challenges. Rwanda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement rebuking Germany’s actions, referring to them as the “politicization of development cooperation.”

Rwanda expressed its discontent with Germany’s caretaker government for failing to hold the DRC accountable for repeated violations, which Kigali believes have emboldened the DRC’s aggressive behavior and exacerbated the conflict. The statement indicated, “Germany contradicts its own claims of supporting the African-led process to resolve the conflict in eastern DRC by letting the DRC off the hook for numerous violations.”

Additionally, Rwanda criticized Germany for disregarding the threats posed by the FDLR militia, which contains individuals responsible for the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. President Paul Kagame’s administration urged Germany, acknowledging its historical role in the region, to avoid “one-sided, coercive measures” that do not confront the crisis’s root causes.

Rwanda’s discontent extended to Canada, which was summoned by Rwanda’s officials due to a statement attributing blame to Kigali for the conflict in eastern DRC. In response, Rwanda rejected Canada’s allegations, contending that such accusations overlook atrocities committed by the DRC army (FARDC) and associated militias. The ministry stated, “Canada is voluntarily accusing Rwanda of atrocities committed in eastern DRC.”

Moreover, Rwanda alleged that Canada was dismissing serious security concerns, particularly regarding attacks on Congolese Tutsi communities in North and South Kivu and Ituri by FDLR and other factions aligned with the DRC. Despite these diplomatic tensions, Rwanda affirmed its commitment to ensuring national security while contributing to regional peace initiatives. The situation remains tense amid ongoing clashes in eastern DRC, which have displaced thousands.

In summary, Rwanda has firmly criticized both Germany and Canada for their approaches to the conflict in eastern DRC, emphasizing a perceived bias that undermines Rwanda’s security measures and peace efforts. The Rwandan government articulated its concerns about the consequences of not addressing various violations committed by the DRC while also rejecting accusations against its own role in the conflict. As tensions persist in the region, Rwanda remains steadfast in ensuring its security while pursuing regional stability.

Original Source: www.capitalfm.co.ke