Rwanda Demands £50 Million from UK Over Canceled Deportation Scheme
Rwanda is demanding £50 million from the UK for a canceled migrant deportation scheme, escalating tensions between the two nations. The UK government has suspended aid to Rwanda amid concerns about its involvement in the DRC, while Rwanda claims the UK has failed to terminate the agreement officially. The costly scheme has drawn significant criticism from UK officials, prompting moves to repeal it entirely. David Lammy’s recent sanctions against Rwanda add further strain to their relationship, as financial discussions remain contentious.
Rwanda is formally requesting the United Kingdom to remit £50 million related to the now-canceled deportation scheme aimed at migrants, marking a significant diplomatic escalation. This request follows the UK Labour government’s decision to scrap the scheme shortly after taking office, adhering to an agreement to forgo payment. However, Rwanda maintains that the UK has not officially terminated the agreement, which permits them to seek this payment despite no migrants being deported.
In response to ongoing tensions, Foreign Secretary David Lammy has suspended aid to Rwanda and threatened further sanctions tied to the actions of the Rwandan-backed M23 group in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Rwanda’s government spokesperson, Yolande Makolo, accused the UK of breaching trust and good faith, criticizing the UK’s “punitive measures” that allegedly compromise Rwanda’s national security. Makolo also expressed concern over misleading public remarks made by UK officials regarding Rwanda’s involvement in conflicts.
The criticism from UK officials has coincided with significant financial implications; the Rwanda plan has cost UK taxpayers approximately £700 million for the voluntary relocation of only four migrants. This total includes direct payments to Rwanda and expenses incurred from unsuccessful deportation flights and administrative costs associated with the initiative. As of February 2024, while £220 million had been disbursed to Rwanda, further payments are scheduled under the existing agreement.
Experts have noted that the agreement includes a provision allowing the UK to activate a break clause at any time, suspending additional payments post-notification. The £50 million invoice submitted by Rwanda pertains to expected payment for April 2025. Makolo confirmed Rwanda’s assertion to the UK that financial obligations should proceed despite the halting of migrant transfers.
Additionally, under the UK government’s recent announcements, strict measures are being imposed on Rwanda until there is significant progress in addressing the DRC crisis. These measures include the suspension of military training, re-evaluation of defense export licenses, and limitations on UK participation in Rwandan events. Moreover, the Home Office is likely to repeal the Rwanda deportation scheme, further emphasizing the government’s stance against this costly initiative—designated a waste of taxpayer funds.
Overall, the conflicts over the UK-Rwanda partnership highlight the intricate political and financial dynamics between the two nations amidst growing concerns over security and conflict resolution in the region.
Rwanda has formally invoiced the United Kingdom for £50 million linked to a canceled deportation scheme, contributing to diplomatic tensions. The UK’s recent suspension of aid and criticism of Rwanda’s conduct in the DRC has exacerbated disagreements. As the UK moves to repeal the costly deportation agreement, financial and political implications continue to unfold, underscoring the complexities of international relations amid humanitarian concerns.
Original Source: www.telegraph.co.uk
