The Rwandan Embassy in Stockholm has responded to Sweden’s government regarding allegations of Rwanda supporting M23 rebels in the DR Congo conflict. Emphasizing security threats from the FDLR militia, the embassy criticized Sweden’s stance as hypocritical and neglected the plight of Congolese Tutsi communities. It urged Sweden to support African-led solutions while condemning the complicity of international actors in perpetuating the crisis.
The Embassy of Rwanda in Stockholm has responded to Sweden’s Ministry for Foreign Affairs following a summons regarding allegations of Rwanda’s involvement in the conflict in eastern DR Congo. The embassy criticized Sweden for its silence on the persecution of Congolese Tutsi communities, which it argues reveals a double standard in Sweden’s approach to the situation. Rwanda has consistently dismissed claims of supporting the M23 rebels, citing security concerns stemming from the FDLR militia’s actions.
In its statements, the embassy maintained that Rwanda faces significant security threats from the FDLR, which is suspected of operating alongside the Congolese national army against M23 rebels. The FDLR’s history, linked to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, is cited as a major source of instability in the region. Moreover, the Rwandan military believes that only it can determine the necessary defensive actions to safeguard its citizens under such threats close to its border, emphasizing, “Only the RDF and the Commander-in-Chief can determine the necessary defensive measures.”
The embassy further highlighted Sweden’s alignment with Belgium, a country with a colonial past in both Rwanda and DR Congo, suggesting such alignment undermines impartiality. The statement raised concerns over the narrative oversimplifying the crisis as merely “Rwanda backs M23,” asserting that M23 represents genuine grievances of Congolese individuals, particularly Tutsi communities suffering persecution and violence.
Criticism was directed at the international response, particularly the UN and European actors for their complicity with FARDC, despite evidence of its cooperation with the FDLR. This complicity had led to Rwanda facing significant attacks, yet Sweden has not condemned these actions. Rwanda’s humanitarian commitments, including welcoming refugees and offering safe passage to evacuated personnel, were emphasized despite these pressures.
The embassy concluded by urging Sweden to support the African-led mediation initiatives and emphasized Rwanda’s goal of establishing a secure border while combating ethnic extremism. It stated, “The cycles of conflict fueled by DR Congo government’s failures and the international community’s inaction must not be tolerated any longer.”
In conclusion, the Embassy of Rwanda has articulated its concerns regarding Sweden’s perceived bias in the ongoing DR Congo crisis, emphasizing the need for a more equitable approach that recognizes the complex dynamics at play. By highlighting security threats from the FDLR and the plight of Congolese Tutsi communities, Rwanda seeks to reframe the narrative surrounding the conflict, advocating for greater international accountability and support for African-led resolutions.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw
