Kagame Denies Troop Presence Amid Conflicts in Eastern DRC

In an interview with CNN, Rwandan President Kagame claimed uncertainty over Rwandan troop presence in eastern DRC, despite the ongoing M23 conflict that has resulted in significant casualties. DRC officials dispute his claims, insisting on documented evidence of support for the rebels. The situation highlights deep regional tensions as Kagame emphasizes Rwanda’s commitment to self-defense amid accusations of external involvement.

Rwandan President Paul Kagame spoke with CNN in a recent interview, expressing uncertainty about the presence of Rwandan troops in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This region is currently engulfed in conflict, particularly involving the M23 armed group and the Congolese military, which has resulted in over 900 fatalities and thousands injured just in the last few days.

The international community largely holds the view that Rwanda is backing the M23 rebels, who claim to have captured Goma, a key city in eastern DRC. United Nations experts state there could be between 3,000 and 4,000 Rwandan soldiers providing oversight and support for M23 forces, potentially outnumbering the rebels themselves. In the interview, when asked directly if any troops were stationed in the DRC, Kagame stated, “I don’t know.”

Despite his command over the Rwandan Defence Force, Kagame’s declaration of uncertainty seemed bewildering. He added, “There are many things I don’t know,” but affirmed that Rwanda is deeply concerned about issues in the DRC that may impact its security. The violence has prompted significant casualties, with the UN’s Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs noting that by the end of January, at least 900 bodies had been recovered amid the turmoil in Goma.

The M23 group’s spokesperson Victor Tesongo also denied any Rwandan support, arguing that claims of assistance are nothing more than “a manipulation of public opinion to disqualify us.” He indicated that Rwanda is more focused on its struggle against the FDLR (Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda), who are allied with the Congolese government.

In a reaction to Kagame’s comments, Patrick Muyaya, the DRC’s communications minister, asserted that the presence of Rwandan soldiers in the DRC is well established. He pointed out that various entities, including the UN and regional leaders, have affirmed this presence, stating, “Kagame is the only voice denying this.”

Furthermore, comparisons were drawn during the interview between Kagame and Russian President Vladimir Putin concerning the support of separatist movements. Kagame appeared unfazed, believing that speculation is inevitable and insisting that Rwanda must prioritize its survival amid the chaotic environment.

The FDLR was labeled an “existential threat” by Kagame, who accused them of being embedded within the Congolese armed forces. He stressed that Rwanda must take responsibility for its own protection, maintaining that no outsider would intervene. “Nobody,” he said, “is going to do it for us.”

When pushed about deploying troops, Kagame reiterated that Rwanda will do whatever is necessary for its defense, cautioning that people should interpret his statements as they wish. In light of escalating tensions, the Rwandan government indicated that there have been casualties from shelling related to the conflict.

Meanwhile, Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi has vowed to respond decisively against the M23, labeling them as agents of Rwandan interests. The group has declared ambitions to establish control beyond Goma, aiming to enact a regime change in the DRC and proactively address regional challenges.

“We cannot limit our struggle to Goma,” Tesongo stated, emphasizing their goal of overthrowing Tshisekedi to facilitate new leadership capable of addressing pressing issues.

The situation in eastern DRC remains tense, with Rwandan President Paul Kagame denying knowledge of military involvement amid a backdrop of deadly violence linked to the M23 group. As the international community scrutinizes Rwanda’s actions, the DRC government maintains that evidence of Rwandan support for M23 is overwhelming. With regional tensions simmering and leadership ambitions from various factions, the potential for drastic developments remains high in the conflict-stricken region.

Original Source: www.cnn.com