Rwandan President Paul Kagame has criticized Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi. His critique focuses on how Tshisekedi is handling the crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Furthermore, Kagame called for accountability from Congolese leaders while defending Rwanda’s right to protect its sovereignty.
Kagame spoke at an African Union (AU) Peace and Security Council meeting. The meeting focused on the security situation in the DRC. However, he denounced what he described as a “blame game.” This approach, he said, has not addressed the region’s deep-rooted instability.
On the other hand, Tshisekedi skipped the AU meeting. Instead, he traveled to the Munich Security Conference. There, he appealed to Western nations and the International Criminal Court (ICC) for intervention against Rwanda. Additionally, Kagame remarked during the AU meeting, “If the blame game, nice speeches, lies, and being shameless were the solution, this problem would have ended long ago.” Consequently, he added, “We wouldn’t have this problem if people didn’t tell lies without reason.”
Meanwhile, in Munich, Tshisekedi accused Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebel group. Moreover, he claimed that his predecessor, Joseph Kabila, was the real architect behind the rebellion. For instance, Tshisekedi stated, “The real sponsor of the opposition is hiding—it is Joseph Kabila. He does not admit it or take responsibility for his actions.”
Interestingly, Tshisekedi has twice skipped regional summits discussing the DRC crisis. Subsequently, he met with ICC prosecutor Karim Khan. As a result, his decision to bypass the AU meeting drew criticism. Critics argue that he is sidelining African-led solutions in favor of Western intervention.
In response, Kagame refuted accusations against Rwanda. Similarly, he reiterated Kigali’s focus on safeguarding its borders. The main threat, according to Kagame, comes from the FDLR militia. Therefore, he questioned, “How can the FDLR not exist in some people’s minds?” When you trivialize it, you trivialize my history,” he emphasized. “I won’t accept that.”
Additionally, Kagame challenged the DRC’s tendency to externalize its problems. In fact, he questioned when the DRC would take responsibility for its own issues. Specifically, he asked, “How does the DRC think all their problems come from outside?” Ultimately, he concluded, “Rwanda has its own problems to deal with. The DRC is too big for Rwanda to carry on its back.”
Moreover, Kagame emphasized Rwanda’s right to protect its sovereignty. Likewise, he rejected any notion of seeking approval from external parties. To clarify, he stated, “I am not seeking any favors. It is my right to ensure the safety and survival of my people.”
The ongoing conflict in eastern DRC has displaced millions. Consequently, it has worsened the humanitarian crisis. Various armed groups, including the FDLR and M23, fuel the conflict. While Tshisekedi accuses Rwanda of backing M23, Kigali denies the allegations. Furthermore, Rwanda claims the FDLR remains its primary security concern.
Tshisekedi’s remarks about Joseph Kabila highlight internal divisions within DRC leadership. These divisions complicate efforts to bring lasting peace to the region. Although observers note that focusing on external blame may hinder progress, internal power struggles could further delay peace efforts.
Finally, as elections approach in the DRC later this year, the crisis tests Tshisekedi’s leadership. His administration faces mounting criticism over its approach. Regional and international observers call for greater internal accountability. Ultimately, cooperation among stakeholders is essential to address the conflict’s underlying causes.
