Rwandan President Paul Kagame has criticized Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi, stating he should not lead the DRC. This follows escalating tensions as the Rwandan-backed M23 controls eastern regions of the DRC, with significant troop presence. Kagame insists Rwanda takes defensive actions amidst the ongoing chaos, while the ICC warns of judicial repercussions for armed forces in Congo.
In a recent diplomatic clash, Rwandan President Paul Kagame openly criticized Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi, asserting that he should not lead the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). During an interview with influencer Mario Nawfal, when asked what he would say to Tshisekedi in a private meeting, Kagame stated, “I wish he wasn’t president of that good country.” This statement underscores the tension between the two nations, particularly amidst the ongoing conflict in eastern Congo.
The DRC continues to grapple with a dire conflict primarily fueled by the Rwandan-backed M23 armed group, which has gained substantial territory following its aggressive campaign against the Congolese military starting in December 2024. Following its rapid advances, the M23 captured Goma, the largest city in Eastern Congo, in late January 2025, and has indicated ambitions to seize the capital, Kinshasa, over 2,000 kilometers away, further exacerbating the already severe situation.
This ongoing turmoil represents a notable escalation in a conflict that traces back to the aftermath of Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and is driven by the struggle for control over the DRC’s rich mineral resources. The United Nations has noted the involvement of more than 4,000 Rwandan troops supporting the M23 forces against the Congolese army.
Despite these claims, President Kagame characterized Rwanda’s actions as defensive. When pressed regarding the presence of Rwandan soldiers within DRC supporting M23, he responded ambiguously, stating, “I don’t know,” while also suggesting that the question acknowledges an underlying truth about the situation. Additionally, International Criminal Court (ICC) Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan has recently warned of legal consequences for any armed factions or military personnel present on Congolese soil, highlighting the potential for accountability amid this ongoing violence.
The conflict between Rwanda and the DRC has intensified, primarily driven by the M23 group’s control over eastern Congo and Kagame’s dismissive remarks about Tshisekedi’s leadership. The presence of Rwandan troops alongside M23 forces raises critical legal and ethical questions about the nature of their involvement. As the situation continues to evolve, the international community watches closely, particularly in light of warnings from the ICC regarding potential justice for military actors in Congo.
Original Source: chimpreports.com
