Veteran Diplomat Challenges EU Claims on DRC Conflict and Rwanda’s Role
A former German ambassador criticized the EU’s handling of the DRC crisis, challenging claims about Rwandan support for M23 rebels. Peter Fahrenholtz emphasized the importance of recognizing the grievances of M23 and the role of European mercenaries in the conflict. Rwanda denied allegations and highlighted the need for addressing underlying security concerns rather than placing blame.
In an ongoing crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), former German diplomat Peter Fahrenholtz has brought attention to a complex issue involving the M23 rebel group and allegations of Rwandan support. Responding to Kaja Kallas, the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Fahrenholtz noted that the grievances of M23 and the persecution faced by the Congolese Tutsi community are often overlooked. He questioned Kallas on the citizenship of M23 members and the involvement of European mercenaries fighting in DRC.
Fahrenholtz’s challenge arose after Kallas emphasized that M23 and Rwanda need to respect the territorial integrity of the DRC. Her assertion positioned M23 as non-Congolese, which Fahrenholtz contested, stating, “Are M23 not DRC citizens? Were there not European mercenaries fighting against them in DRC? Who will protect ethnic minorities in eastern DRC?” He raised concerns regarding the implications of foreign mercenaries on the conflict and the protections afforded to vulnerable populations in the region.
The M23 group, part of the Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC), is advocating for the rights of the Congolese Tutsi, who have faced historical discrimination. Recently, an estimated 2,000 Eastern European mercenaries were reportedly engaged in combat alongside the Congolese forces and their allies, including troops from Burundi and the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
Amidst these allegations, Rwanda’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Olivier Nduhungirehe, met with Kallas and firmly rejected claims of Rwandan involvement with M23, emphasizing Rwanda’s own security concerns regarding the DRC-based FDLR militia. Nduhungirehe contended that attributing blame to Rwanda fails to address the root causes of the ongoing conflict. He stated, “The unhelpful misreading of the eastern DR Congo crisis and the one-sided measures against Rwanda will not lead to a solution.”
The discourse surrounding the conflict in eastern DR Congo highlights the complex interplay of local and foreign interests, particularly concerning the M23 rebel group and the role of European mercenaries. Former diplomat Peter Fahrenholtz’s remarks shed light on the overlooked grievances of ethnic minorities and the implications of foreign intervention. Rwanda’s dismissal of the allegations indicates deep-seated tensions and the necessity for a more nuanced understanding of regional security dynamics. Ultimately, resolving the crisis requires addressing the multifaceted issues rather than assigning blame.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw
