The issue involving Rwanda and Congo has escalated following the statements made by the President of the Democratic Republic of Congo during his presidential campaign. He declared that if elected, he would immediately attack Kigali and used derogatory language, including insults like “Nyangarakata.”
In Rwanda, the speech was poorly received, with many noting that President Felix Tshisekedi’s words were not just insulting but also threatening in nature. Some argued that carrying out an attack on Rwanda, especially on Kigali, seemed improbable due to Rwanda’s high level of security.
However, concerns were raised about the insecurity experienced by Rwandans living in the Democratic Republic of Congo, including Tutsi and Murenge people who faced severe abuse.
In response to the hate speech, the spokesperson for the Government of Rwanda, Alain Mukurarinda, addressed the security situation. He stated, “Regarding the security of Rwanda, for the people of Rwanda, there is no problem; security is protected. It does not mean that the residents ( Residing in Rubavu near RDC) of this area should not be vigilant or ignore the advice given by the authorities.”
Mukurarinda emphasized the strained relationship between the DRC and Rwanda, stating, “The relationship between the DRC and Rwanda is in a state of trouble. (But), all I can tell you is that the words spoken are not words that should be spoken by the head of the country.”
He continued to defend against the inflammatory language used during the campaign, saying, “We have 210 countries with 8 or 9 billion people. That is to say, we have leaders of 210 countries. But you think of 210 people out of 9 billion people, their responsibilities, you understand how they behave, and you are among those 210 people who lead another billions, and you say words like that? That’s why I say that these are not appropriate words (to be spoken) by the head of the country. Again, they are not words that (bring) peace, they are not words that (lead to) peace but words to (start) war.”
Mukurarinda advised caution in responding to such statements, highlighting that it is election time and encouraged analysis of the reasons behind the rhetoric.
Mukurarinda also pointed out that if there is suspicion of crimes against humanity or genocide, it is the responsibility of other countries to report and condemn them.
He mentioned that Rwanda had raised concerns about actions in the DRC possibly leading to genocide, citing “two reports” from the United Nations.
While confirming “regular meetings between the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Rwanda and representatives of other countries or international organizations”, Mukurarinda clarified that Rwanda had not decided to intervene militarily in the Congo.
He stressed the importance of following international procedures and warned armed groups, particularly Wazalendo, about potential accusations of “genocide”, attacks on human beings, or war crimes” based on evidence.