General James Kabarebe, emblematic figure of the Great Lakes region, was recently appointed Minister of State for Regional Cooperation in Rwanda. A former chief of staff and defense minister, Kabarebe now occupies a key position managing regional affairs, particularly as they relate to the East African Community.
This appointment sparked many reactions and questions, particularly because of Kabarebe’s controversial past. Ally of Laurent-Désiré Kabila during the first Congo war in 1996, he then held the position of chief of staff of the Congolese army in 1997. More recently, he was mentioned in the report of the experts of the UN on the DRC, accused of having supported the armed group M23 in the province of North Kivu.
This appointment could be interpreted as a gesture of defiance towards the international community on the part of the Rwandan government. Indeed, despite the accusations against Kabarebe, he now occupies a leading political position, which can be seen as a provocation.
However, it should be emphasized that this appointment should not overshadow other regional cooperation issues. The East African Community represents an opportunity for economic development and strengthening relations between countries in the region. It is therefore essential that Minister Kabarebe takes this responsibility seriously and implements policies favorable to cooperation and regional integration.
It is also important to remember that the situation in the Great Lakes region is complex and that relations between countries are often tinged with tension. It will therefore take a lot of diplomacy and work on the part of Minister Kabarebe to promote dialogue and conflict resolution.
In conclusion, the appointment of James Kabarebe as Minister of State for Regional Cooperation in Rwanda arouses varying reactions. While some voices denounce its controversial past, others emphasize the importance of regional cooperation in the development of the Great Lakes region. It remains to be seen how Kabarebe will exercise his new role and whether he will be able to meet the expectations of the East African Community countries.