Title: The security crisis in the DRC: the responsibility of Kigali questioned by President Tshisekedi
Introduction :
The volatile security situation in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) continues to cause tension between the Congolese and Rwandan governments. During a joint press conference with his South African counterpart, President Felix Tshisekedi directly accused Rwanda of being the source of this instability. According to him, the Rwandan president continues to deny his involvement, despite the clear evidence of his country’s aggression towards the DRC. In this article, we will examine the statements of President Tshisekedi and the implications of this situation on the relations between the two countries.
President Tshisekedi points the finger at Rwanda:
During the press conference, President Tshisekedi did not mince his words towards Rwanda. He accused the Rwandan government of lying about its involvement in the DRC aggression. According to him, Rwanda presents the situation as an internal problem in Congo and refers to the M23 rebels as Congolese taking up arms against their own country. President Tshisekedi claims that this version is a blatant lie and that Rwanda continues to deny responsibility despite the evidence.
No possibility of negotiations at the moment:
The tension between the two countries makes it difficult to hold discussions to resolve the security crisis. President Tshisekedi specifies that he does not reject the possibility of negotiating with Kigali, but that the current situation does not allow it. He also denounces the fact that Rwanda has mandated M23 representatives to the negotiating table with a legitimate and internationally recognized government. This collusion between Rwanda and elements of the M23 further complicates efforts to resolve the conflict.
Criticisms of the East African regional force:
President Tshisekedi also criticized the behavior of the East African force deployed in the region. He regrets that this force does not respect peace agreements and treaties, and points to a connivance between certain contingents and members of the M23, which even allow them to levy taxes in the areas they control. Discussions have been initiated with the countries concerned to find solutions to these problems, but concrete decisions still have to be taken by September.
Conclusion :
The security crisis in eastern DRC continues to strain relations between the DRC and Rwanda. President Tshisekedi directly accuses Rwanda of being at the origin of this instability and of denying its responsibility in the aggression of the DRC. Tensions between the two countries make any attempt at negotiations difficult, while criticism of the East African force underscores the challenges facing efforts to resolve the conflict. It is crucial to find lasting solutions to restore peace in the region and guarantee the security of the Congolese populations