Rwanda asserts that France is the most informed nation regarding the root causes of the crisis in the Eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and should refrain from assigning blame, especially as the security situation in the Great Lakes Region intensifies.
The assertion comes in response to a recent statement from the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressing deep concern about the situation in eastern Congo, specifically in North Kivu around Goma and Sake. The French statement accused Rwanda and the M23 rebel group of fueling the conflict, prompting Rwanda to defend its stance.
Yolande Makolo, the Spokesperson of the Government of Rwanda, emphasized that France, more than any other country, understands the historical and root causes of the conflict in eastern DRC. Makolo highlights that addressing the underlying issues is crucial for resolving the conflict and suggests that France’s knowledge of the region’s history should eliminate any confusion.
Rwanda maintains that the key to resolving the conflict lies in addressing longstanding issues that originated during the time when France was actively involved in the region, particularly during and after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. The presence of former Rwandan government soldiers and Interahamwe militia, supported by French military during the “Zone Turquoise” era, led to the formation of armed groups, including the FDLR, posing a threat to regional security.
Rwanda emphasizes that the collaboration between DRC forces and the FDLR continues to jeopardize peace in the region. Responding to France’s accusation, Rwanda underscores the need to end Congolese state support for the FDLR, insisting it is a matter of state policy hindering peacebuilding efforts.
In addition to responding to France, Rwanda also criticized the United States for toning down its stance on the FDLR, describing it as a “genocidal and terrorist outfit.” The Government of Rwanda contends that the FDLR’s existence in DRC, with the support of Kinshasa, poses a threat to both Rwanda and the entire region.
Despite facing external pressures and accusations, Rwanda maintains its position that addressing the root causes of the conflict, including historical issues, is essential for achieving lasting peace in the Great Lakes Region.
