Title: The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) refute the allegations of integration of elements of the FDLR
Introduction :
In a recent press briefing, the spokesman of the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC), General Sylvain Ekenge, reacted strongly to accusations that certain elements of the FDLR (Democratic Liberation Forces of Rwanda) had integrated in the ranks of the Congolese Republican Guard. He called the allegations “serious and shameful” and pointed the finger at those who support Rwandan aggression. In this article, we will take a closer look at the FARDC reaction to these accusations and the underlying geopolitical context.
Unfounded allegations:
The FARDC spokesman strongly refuted claims that FDLR elements had been integrated into the Congolese security forces. He called these allegations a deception and stressed that the 1994 FDLR do not pose a serious threat to Rwanda. According to General Ekenge, Rwanda is using this alleged presence of the FDLR in the DRC as a pretext to justify its aggression in the eastern part of the country.
Rwandan propaganda and American accusations:
The FARDC spokesperson also questioned the US accusations, calling them a repercussion of Rwandan propaganda. According to him, it is worrying to see the United States relaying this propaganda which serves the interests of Rwanda. He stressed that the DRC has no shortage of young people ready to join the armed forces and recalled that during the general mobilization launched by the President of the Republic, many young people joined voluntarily.
An army at the service of regional stability:
General Ekenge made it clear that the FARDC will never serve as a rear base for armed groups or forces seeking to destabilize neighboring countries. He underlined that it is the neighbors of the DRC who are used to carrying out aggressions and not the reverse. According to him, the mission of the FARDC is to protect the security and territorial integrity of the DRC, and not to engage in acts of aggression.
Conclusion :
During the recent press briefing, the FARDC spokesperson clearly refuted the allegations of integration of FDLR elements into the Congolese security forces. He denounced the Rwandan propaganda and criticized the American accusations which support this propaganda