Rwanda’s Paul Kagame Criticizes DRC’s President Tshisekedi Amidst Conflict

Rwandan President Paul Kagame critiques Felix Tshisekedi’s presidency amid escalating tensions between Rwanda and the DRC. The M23 armed group, backed by Rwanda, has seized control over significant territories in eastern Congo, leading to a humanitarian crisis. Reports indicate Rwandan troops are supporting M23 forces. The ICC has warned of accountability for armed groups operating in Congo.

The diplomatic tensions between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have escalated, particularly following remarks from Rwandan President Paul Kagame. During an interview with social media influencer Mario Nawfal, President Kagame expressed his belief that Felix Tshisekedi should not be the leader of the DRC. This statement comes amidst ongoing conflict that has already resulted in significant casualties in eastern Congo.

The conflict involves the Rwandan-backed M23 armed group, which has gained substantial territory after overwhelming the Congolese army since December 2024. The M23 has become the dominant force among more than 100 armed groups operating in the region, leading to the capture of Goma, the largest city in Eastern Congo, in January 2025. The group has now set its sights on the capital, Kinshasa, advancing quickly towards its objectives.

This situation reflects a severe escalation in a long-standing conflict rooted in the aftermath of the 1994 Rwandan genocide and the ongoing struggle for control over Congo’s rich mineral resources. The United Nations has reported that over 4,000 Rwandan troops are presently supporting the M23 military campaign.

While President Kagame maintains that Rwanda’s actions are defensive in nature, his statements during the interview raise questions regarding the extent of Rwanda’s military involvement. When questioned about Rwandan troops fighting in the DRC, Kagame appeared evasive, stating, “I don’t know,” yet indicated an awareness of the truths surrounding the situation.

In light of these developments, International Criminal Court Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan has warned that any armed factions operating within Congo will face legal consequences, emphasizing the urgency of accountability in the ongoing crisis.

In summary, President Paul Kagame’s remarks about Felix Tshisekedi’s presidency highlight the increasing tensions between Rwanda and the DRC amid a fierce conflict led by the M23 group. The situation is compounded by reports of Rwandan troop involvement and warnings from international bodies regarding the need for accountability in the region. As both nations grapple with the consequences of this conflict, the call for peace and stability remains paramount.

Original Source: chimpreports.com