Rwanda’s Minister Addresses DR Congo Conflict with EU Diplomat Kaja Kallas

Rwanda’s Foreign Minister, Amb Olivier Nduhungirehe, asserted that Rwanda will not accept responsibility for the governance failures of the DR Congo during a meeting with EU diplomat Kaja Kallas. The conversation highlighted Rwanda’s national security concerns, especially regarding threats from the FDLR militia. The ongoing conflict is characterized by significant territorial gains made by M23 rebels amid accusations of Rwandan support, which Kigali denies. Historical discrimination against Kinyarwanda speakers compounds the crisis, calling for renewed dialogue and fair mediation efforts.

On March 10, in Brussels, Belgium, Rwandan Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe emphasized that the conflict in eastern DR Congo should not be attributed to Rwanda. He stated, “We will not accept to bear the burden of the DRC’s governance and security failures.” This meeting occurred with Kaja Kallas, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, who acknowledged Rwanda’s national security concerns. Nduhungirehe reaffirmed that persistent threats, especially from the FDLR, are often overlooked by global powers.

The renewed conflict involves a coalition within the Congolese army, which consists of FDLR militia and external forces, against M23 rebels. Nduhungirehe accused the Congolese government of neglecting Rwanda’s security issues while arguing that Rwanda remains committed to peacebuilding. He indicated that a unilateral approach to the situation would not foster a resolution, instead favoring sustained dialogue and mediation efforts that include all parties involved.

Since early January, M23 rebels have made significant territorial gains, capturing strategic locations such as Goma and Bukavu, which is indicative of the deteriorating security landscape in eastern DR Congo. These developments are exacerbated by the Congolese government’s allegations of Rwandan support for M23, claims that Kigali categorically denies. The ongoing unrest highlights a cycle of ethnic discrimination against the Kinyarwanda-speaking community in the DRC, fueling rebellion.

Nduhungirehe critiqued the perceived bias from the international community towards Rwanda amid this conflict and reiterated Rwanda’s willingness to dialogue and pursue a political solution that addresses root causes. Post-meeting, Kallas reiterated the need for M23 to respect DR Congo’s sovereignty. However, experts voiced concerns about inequities in addressing ethnic tensions and the governmental use of military force against marginalized populations.

Additionally, the historical context of the conflict traces back to the aftermath of the 1994 Rwandan Genocide, where remnants of previous regimes fled to DR Congo, laying groundwork for current strife. Critics argue that discriminatory practices against the Kinyarwanda-speaking communities in the DRC by successive governments contribute significantly to the ongoing violence and displacement of populations.

The meeting in Brussels between Rwandan Minister Nduhungirehe and EU diplomat Kaja Kallas signals crucial dialogues regarding the complexities of the DR Congo conflict. Nduhungirehe’s assertions reflect Rwanda’s urgent security concerns and the need for an inclusive political discourse. The recent territorial advances by M23 rebels illustrate the mounting instability, while historical grievances underpin the ongoing ethnic and political tensions. Moving forward, a balanced approach that fosters dialogue while addressing humanitarian needs is essential for lasting peace in the region.

Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw