In a recent exclusive interview with Fatshimetrie, Rwandan President Paul Kagame asserted that Rwanda was ready to go to war with the Democratic Republic of Congo if necessary, declaring, “we are ready to fight and are not afraid of anything.” .
This statement follows accusations by Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi, who claimed that Rwanda was organizing a genocide in eastern DRC. Kagame responded by accusing Tshisekedi of promoting a genocidal ideology against Congolese Tutsis.
Kagame also refused to confirm the presence of Rwandan soldiers in the DRC, stressing the need to address the root causes of regional tensions.
As he prepares to seek a fourth term in presidential elections on July 15, Kagame has denied allegations that the election was rigged and rejected accusations of repression and assassination of opponents. He affirmed his government’s commitment to free and fair elections.
These statements highlight growing tensions between Rwanda and the DRC and highlight the challenges facing Kagame as the elections approach.
The long-running conflict in eastern Congo has spawned one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises, with more than 100 armed groups fighting in the region, most for control of land and precious mineral mines. Some fight to protect their communities, but many groups are accused of committing massacres, rape and other human rights violations.
The violence has displaced around 7 million people, thousands of whom live in temporary camps like the one attacked last month. Many others are beyond the reach of humanitarian aid.
The situation in this region remains volatile and complex, requiring a diplomatic approach and international cooperation to achieve a peaceful and lasting resolution. The stability of Africa’s Great Lakes region remains a major challenge for peace and security across the continent.