Rwanda has criticized Germany for politicizing development cooperation and neglecting security concerns related to the DRC conflict. It accused Germany of weakening African-led peace efforts while failing to hold the DRC accountable. Additionally, Rwanda condemned Canada for blaming Kigali for violence in DRC, asserting that it disregards atrocities committed by the DRC army. Overall, tensions between Rwanda and its international partners have escalated amid ongoing conflict in eastern DRC.
The Rwandan government has expressed strong criticism towards Germany and Canada concerning their positions on the ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). It accuses both nations of exhibiting bias and neglecting Rwanda’s security concerns. This sentiment was articulated through a statement by Rwanda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, which specifically condemned Germany for politicizing its development cooperation efforts.
Rwanda’s officials voiced disappointment over Germany’s alleged undermining of peace initiatives led by Africans. They claim that Berlin’s reluctance to hold the DRC accountable for its repeated violations has emboldened Kinshasa’s aggressive behavior, thereby prolonging the conflict. The statement highlighted, “Germany contradicts its own claims of supporting the African-led process to resolve the conflict in eastern DRC…” indicating a divergence in actions and stated intentions.
Furthermore, Kigali accused Germany of neglecting the dangers posed by the DRC-backed armed group, FDLR, known for its role in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Rwanda’s administration urged Germany to consider its historical responsibility regarding regional instability and to avoid one-sided measures that do not address the root causes of the conflict.
In a similar vein, Rwanda summoned Canada’s High Commissioner after Ottawa attributed blame to Kigali for the violence in eastern DRC. The Rwandan government firmly rejected these accusations, contending that Canada failed to recognize the atrocities committed by the DRC army and its allied militias. It asserted, “Canada is voluntarily accusing Rwanda of atrocities… while those crimes are committed in broad daylight by the FARDC and DRC government militias.”
Moreover, Rwanda expressed concerns that Canada was disregarding the legitimate security issues it faces, particularly related to the persecutions of Congolese Tutsi communities by FDLR and DRC-aligned forces. Despite the backlash, Rwanda affirmed its commitment to national security while striving to engage in regional peace initiatives.
Recent diplomatic tensions between Rwanda and its international allies have intensified against the backdrop of renewed hostilities in eastern DRC. The conflict, primarily between the Congolese army and M23 rebels, has led to significant displacement among the local population. Rwanda has consistently accused the DRC government of backing the FDLR militia, while the DRC alleges that Rwanda supports the M23 rebels, claims that Kigali has categorically denied.
In summary, the Rwandan government has criticized both Germany and Canada for their perceived bias and for overlooking Rwanda’s security concerns in relation to the DRC conflict. Rwanda’s statements reflect a broader frustration with international perceptions and attributions of blame regarding the ongoing violence. The responses from both Germany and Canada have prompted Rwanda to assert its stance on national security while highlighting the complexities of the conflict and the dynamics of regional peace efforts.
Original Source: www.capitalfm.co.ke
