Rwanda summoned UK High Commissioner Alison Thorpe over comments by Minister Lord Collins linking Rwanda to the ADF terrorist group. The Rwandan government refuted these claims as false and harmful, emphasizing its commitment to counterterrorism in the region. The incident exacerbates diplomatic tensions between Rwanda and the UK following sanctions related to the M23 conflict in eastern DRC.
The Rwandan government has summoned the United Kingdom’s High Commissioner to Kigali, Alison Thorpe, in reaction to comments made by UK Minister for Africa, Lord Collins of Highbury, during a session in the House of Lords. These remarks linked Rwanda to the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a terrorist group associated with ISIS operating in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda. Rwanda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation condemned these statements as “false, insulting, and dangerous.”
Lord Collins asserted that Rwanda’s Foreign Minister had denied these accusations regarding an ADF attack; however, Kigali refutes this, stating that the ADF was not mentioned in the discussions between the two ministers in Geneva. Rwanda firmly denies any connection to the ADF, highlighting that the group operates far from its borders. Additionally, Rwanda is involved in counterterrorism operations against similar extremist threats in Mozambique, partnering with local troops against ISIS-linked militants.
Rwanda criticized Lord Collins’ remarks as “dangerous and irresponsible,” accusing him of misleading the public and promoting DRC’s propaganda, which undermines African-led peace efforts in the region. The Rwandan government emphasized that such assertions could jeopardize diplomatic relations and hinder stability in the Great Lakes area. This incident has taken place amid already strained ties between Rwanda and the UK, due to recent sanctions imposed by London.
The UK has enacted targeted sanctions on individuals linked to alleged Rwandan support for the M23 rebellion in eastern DRC, suspended military collaboration, and pressured Rwanda to cease its involvement in M23 activities. Rwanda has categorically denied these accusations, asserting that its military actions are in defense against security threats from the FDLR and other hostile entities near its borders.
While Lord Collins has privately acknowledged an error in his comments and has promised to amend the record, Rwanda has found this response inadequate. The Rwandan government has formally requested that the UK issue a public correction and apologize to prevent misinformation. This incident further illustrates the escalating rift between Rwanda and Western powers regarding the complex crisis in eastern DRC.
The Rwandan government has taken formal action against comments made by UK Minister Lord Collins, asserting the false nature of claims linking Rwanda to the ADF. Tensions between Rwanda and the UK have intensified, especially in light of recent sanctions and accusations concerning the M23 rebellion. Rwanda seeks a public correction and an apology from the UK to maintain diplomatic relations and ensure accurate discourse surrounding regional security issues.
Original Source: chimpreports.com
