The Rwandan Embassy in Stockholm has responded to Sweden’s Ministry for Foreign Affairs regarding accusations of Rwanda’s involvement in the DRC conflict. It criticized Sweden for its silence on Congolese Tutsi persecution and questioned its alignment with Belgium. The embassy emphasized Rwanda’s security concerns regarding the FDLR militia and underscored the complexity of the DRC crisis which it feels has been oversimplified by the international community.
The Embassy of Rwanda in Stockholm has reacted to Sweden’s Ministry for Foreign Affairs summoning its ambassador regarding accusations of Rwanda’s involvement in the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The embassy emphasized Sweden’s inaction regarding the persecution of Congolese Tutsi communities and criticized its alignment with Belgium on this issue.
In response to the allegations of supporting M23 rebels, Rwanda has consistently dismissed these claims, highlighting security threats posed by the FDLR, a militia formed from individuals responsible for the 1994 genocide against Rwandan Tutsi. Rwanda contends that the FDLR has launched numerous attacks against its territory and is integrated into the Congolese national army.
The Rwandan Embassy asserted that measures must be taken to mitigate the FDLR threat, stressing that the Rwanda Defence Forces (RDF) and its Command will determine defensive actions to secure Rwandan lives, particularly when threats emerge close to the border. It stated, “Only the RDF and the Commander-in-Chief can determine the necessary defensive measures to protect the lives of Rwandans—especially when threats emerge just two kilometers from the border. Rwanda will not be bullied or blackmailed into compromising its national security.”
Furthermore, the embassy criticized Sweden’s approach to the crisis, characterizing it as a double standard. It expressed dissatisfaction with Sweden’s silence on the suffering of Congolese Tutsi communities subjected to ethnic persecution, allegedly condoned by the Congolese government. Additionally, the embassy noted Sweden’s alignment with Belgium, a former colonial power, in opposition to Rwanda amidst the ongoing crisis.
The embassy pointed out that Nordic countries do not share a colonial history with Rwanda. It stated that Sweden, due to its unique position devoid of historical grievances or illicit dealings, could maintain an impartial diplomatic stance. The embassy argued that the international community has oversimplified the DRC crisis, reducing it to the false narrative that “Rwanda backs M23.”
The embassy underscored the importance of recognizing M23’s origins as a Congolese movement stemming from the DRC government’s failure to honor peace agreements and protect kinship rights, particularly those of Tutsi communities facing systemic persecution and violence. It criticized the international response, particularly the role of the UN aligned with DRC government forces, failing to take punitive actions despite confirmed collaborations with the FDLR.
The embassy also emphasized Sweden’s lack of condemnation regarding attacks on Rwandan territory, particularly incidents involving the FDLR shelling in June 2022. In contrast, Rwanda has maintained its humanitarian obligations, providing sanctuary for refugees, including FARDC soldiers and FDLR elements, and facilitating operations for foreign personnel in the region.
The Rwandan Embassy’s response to Sweden’s summoning reflects its commitment to addressing security concerns stemming from the DRC crisis while highlighting perceived injustices faced by Tutsi communities. The embassy’s assertion of Rwanda’s security rights and its call for a balanced international response to the complex crisis emphasizes the need for consideration of the historical and socio-political dynamics involved. Ultimately, Rwanda seeks to uphold its national security and advocate for a fair resolution to the ongoing conflicts in the region.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw
