Rwanda has criticized Germany for politicizing development cooperation in the DRC conflict and Canada for ignoring its security concerns. The Rwandan government condemns bias against it and calls for accountability from the DRC. Tensions have escalated amid ongoing violence in the region, affecting diplomatic relations.
The Rwandan government has issued strong criticism of Germany and Canada concerning their recent stances on the ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Officials accuse both nations of bias and a lack of consideration for Rwanda’s security concerns regarding the conflict. A statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned Germany for what it described as the “politicization of development cooperation.”
Rwanda expressed its disappointment with Germany’s caretaker administration for purportedly undermining African-led peace initiatives. According to Kigali, Berlin’s failure to hold the DRC accountable for repeated violations has encouraged aggressive behavior from Kinshasa, thereby prolonging the conflict. The statement contended that, “Germany contradicts its own claims of supporting the African-led process to resolve the conflict in eastern DRC…”
The Rwandan government also highlighted Germany’s negligence regarding the threats posed by the FDLR, a militia group composed of individuals responsible for the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Citing historical responsibilities related to the region’s instability, officials urged Germany to refrain from employing “one-sided, coercive measures” that fail to tackle the crisis’s root causes.
Discontent was also directed toward Canada, prompting Rwanda to summon the High Commissioner after Ottawa’s accusation of Kigali’s involvement in the violence in eastern DRC. Rwanda rebuffed these claims, asserting that Canada was misattributing atrocities while neglecting the actions of the DRC army and allied militias. The ministry stated, “Canada is voluntarily accusing Rwanda of atrocities…”
Furthermore, Rwanda criticized Canada for disregarding its legitimate security concerns, specifically mentioning the persecution of the Congolese Tutsi communities by the FDLR and other DRC-associated forces. Despite these grievances, Rwanda remains steadfast in its commitment to national security while actively participating in regional peace efforts.
Tensions between Rwanda and its international partners have heightened recently within the context of escalating violence in eastern DRC, where clashes between the Congolese army and the M23 rebels are causing significant displacement. Rwanda has consistently accused the DRC government of supporting the FDLR, while Kinshasa alleges Kigali’s backing of the M23 rebels, claims that Rwanda categorically denies.
In summary, Rwanda has expressed profound dissatisfaction with Germany and Canada, accusing both nations of politicizing development efforts and failing to address legitimate security concerns. The Rwandan government asserts that these actions exacerbate the ongoing conflict in the eastern DRC. While emphasizing its commitment to protecting national security, Rwanda seeks a more equitable dialogue regarding peace and security in the region. Diplomatic relations remain strained amid heightened tensions and ongoing violence.
Original Source: www.capitalfm.co.ke
