Rwanda Rejects Blame for DR Congo’s Governance Failures in Eastern Conflict

Rwandan Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe stated that Rwanda will not be held responsible for the governance and security failures of DR Congo. He emphasized that Rwanda’s security concerns are often overlooked and that the conflict is not a result of Rwandan actions. The meeting with EU’s Kaja Kallas highlighted differing perspectives on M23’s role and the need for dialogue to resolve the ongoing conflict.

On March 10, 2025, during a meeting with Kaja Kallas, the European Union High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Rwandan Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe emphasized that the ongoing conflict in eastern DR Congo was not instigated by Rwanda. He firmly stated that Rwanda would not assume responsibility for the governance and security failures of DR Congo. This meeting took place in Brussels, where Nduhungirehe reiterated that Rwanda’s national security concerns have been persistently neglected despite the tangible threat posed by the FDLR genocidal militia operating from DR Congo.

The conflict involves the Congolese government forces, including the FDLR, which is a militia formed by elements linked to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, against the M23 rebels since its resurgence in 2021. M23 has evolved into a larger coalition known as the Alliance fleuve Congo (AFC), formed in December 2023. Following the seizure of Goma, M23 continues to advance through North and South Kivu provinces, amid a deteriorating security situation exacerbated by the actions of the Congolese army, which contributes to violence and instability in the region.

Nduhungirehe also addressed the claims of Rwandan support for the M23 rebels, which he vehemently dismissed as unfounded. He emphasized that many individuals within M23 are members of the Kinyarwanda-speaking Congolese community that has faced systemic oppression by their government. In Brussels, he cautioned that misinterpretations of the crisis in eastern DR Congo would only prolong hostilities and undermine the existing African-led mediation efforts aimed at a peaceful resolution.

Following the meeting, Kaja Kallas reiterated the Congolese government’s stance regarding M23 and suggested that Rwanda must honor DR Congo’s sovereignty. This position was countered by various commentators, including former European officials who questioned the narrative around M23’s status and highlighted the need to protect ethnic minorities in the region. An ongoing theme emphasized by observers is the refusal of the Congolese government to engage in negotiations with M23, which many argue prefers to use Rwanda as a scapegoat for its failures.

Amid the escalating violence, Nduhungirehe remarked on the international community’s dismissal of the threats posed by FDLR, arguing that Rwanda’s critical security concerns have not been taken seriously. This underscores Rwanda’s longstanding concerns regarding the pervasive threat of genocidal elements who seek to destabilize the region. Historical grievances stemming from the aftermath of the 1994 genocide continue to fuel the conflict, illustrated by the rise of militias seeking to return to Rwanda to fulfill their destructive agendas.

The Rwandan authorities have voiced their frustrations over the Congolese government’s military actions against Kinyarwanda-speaking communities, highlighting a series of violent incidents against civilians. Bertrand Bisimwa, the deputy coordinator of the AFC/M23 rebellion, condemned these assaults and called attention to the humanitarian crisis facing these communities amidst ongoing military operations carried out with impunity. Reports of aerial bombardments and targeted killings have raised alarms regarding the treatment of unarmed civilians caught in the crossfire.

The conflict in eastern DR Congo is complex, with deep-rooted historical and ethnic dimensions. Minister Nduhungirehe’s remarks stress Rwanda’s refusal to accept accountability for issues arising from DR Congo’s governance. The ongoing violence, misinterpretation of the situation, and failure to address security concerns reflect significant challenges that impede peace efforts. The importance of engaging in constructive dialogue remains crucial for regional stability and the protection of vulnerable communities.

Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw