In the complex and tangled world of African geopolitics, the tumultuous relations between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda have been at the heart of many tensions and conflicts for decades. Recently, the diplomatic incident between Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi and his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron at the 19th Francophonie Summit has rekindled the embers of this regional quarrel.
Eric Kamba, geopolitical analyst and coordinator of the NGO Congo Action pour la Diplomatie Agissante (CADA), points out France’s bias towards Rwanda in the conflict between these two countries. According to him, France seems to be leaning in favor of Rwanda, which has negative repercussions on the situation in the DRC. He criticizes in particular Macron’s speech which highlights Rwanda’s demands, thus favoring Kigali’s positions to the detriment of Kinshasa.
Kamba highlights the political and security issues related to the presence of armed groups in eastern DRC, including the Rwandan-backed M23. He stresses the importance of the Luanda and Nairobi processes to resolve regional conflicts, but deplores the obstacles and divergent interests of the actors involved.
The issue of the Congolese Tutsis, the presence of Rwandan troops on Congolese soil and Rwanda’s claims are all sensitive points that fuel tensions between the two countries. Kamba warns against foreign interference, in this case that of France, which risks compromising peace and stabilization efforts in the region.
In conclusion, CADA’s request to France to no longer get involved in the conflict between Rwanda and the DRC raises crucial questions about international diplomacy and the balance of power in Central Africa. It is imperative that regional and international actors act impartially and constructively to promote a peaceful resolution of conflicts and ensure stability in the region.