Tensions Escalate as Rwanda Denies Allegations of Occupation in DR Congo

In the escalating conflict involving DR Congo, Rwandan officials rebut accusations of illegal occupation, as calls for sanctions against Rwanda grow stronger.

Rwanda has been accused of engaging in an illegal military occupation of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and instigating a push for regime change, according to a statement from the DRC's foreign minister on a BBC broadcast. Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner highlighted a history of unchecked actions by Rwandan President Paul Kagame in violating international norms, particularly relevant as tensions rise following the capture of Goma by Rwanda-backed M23 rebels. In response to these allegations, Rwandan government spokesperson Yolande Makolo claimed their military presence was necessary to prevent escalating violence from reaching Rwandan soil, asserting that Rwanda has no intentions of warfare or annexation.

As the situation unfolds, a special meeting of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) is set to convene in Zimbabwe to seek resolutions related to the disturbances in DR Congo. SADC, which includes 16 member nations, has deployed peacekeeping forces, notably from South Africa, to address the threat posed by armed factions like the M23 and restore order in the resource-rich region. The conflict has already resulted in the loss of 16 SADC soldiers in confrontations near Goma this past week.

Rwandan President Kagame has publicly disputed the designation of SADC troops as peacekeepers, stating they have no valid role in the current situation. In defending Rwanda's actions, Makolo emphasized that the military deployment was a defensive measure against ongoing cross-border aggressions. Meanwhile, Minister Wagner has called for a cessation of foreign aid to Rwanda and imposed sanctions on leaders perceived to be enabling the continued warfare in the Great Lakes region. She insisted on the need for Rwanda’s participation in global peacekeeping efforts to be reevaluated, questioning the credibility of a nation that advocates for peace abroad while allegedly fostering conflict at home.