Kagame rejects misrepresentation, criticizes sAMIDRC, and clarifies talks with Ramaphosa on DRC crisis
In a series of tweets on his official x account(former twittter), President Paul Kagame addressed recent statements made by South African officials and President Cyril Ramaphosa concerning the situation in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
President Kagame highlighted distortions, deliberate attacks, and falsehoods surrounding their discussions about the conflict.
Kagame confirmed that he had held two conversations with President Ramaphosa this week, including one earlier yesterday. However, he expressed disappointment over the public misrepresentation of these talks by South African officials.
Key Points from President Kagame on X account:
Rwanda’s Army Is Not a Militia
President Kagame emphasized that the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) is a professional national army, not a militia as some statements implied.
Criticism of SAMIDRC
He criticized the Southern African Development Community’s (SADC) deployment of SAMIDRC, stating that it is not a peacekeeping force but a belligerent entity engaged in offensive operations alongside groups like the FDLR, which target Rwanda. He noted that SAMIDRC’s presence undermined the East African Community Regional Force, contributing to failed peace negotiations.
No Warning Issued
Contrary to reports, Kagame asserted that President Ramaphosa did not issue any warnings to Rwanda. Instead, Ramaphosa requested support to ensure South African forces in DRC had access to electricity, food, and water — a request Rwanda promised to relay.
Clarification on Soldier Deaths
Kagame stated that President Ramaphosa confirmed that FARDC, not M23, was responsible for the deaths of South African soldiers in DRC.
Call for South Africa’s Role
While Rwanda welcomed South Africa’s desire to contribute to peace efforts, Kagame made it clear that South Africa was not in a position to act as a peacemaker or mediator. He warned that if South Africa chose confrontation, Rwanda was prepared to address it accordingly.
President Kagame’s remarks underscore Rwanda’s position amid ongoing tensions and highlight the complexity of regional efforts to address the conflict in Eastern DRC.
ND
