By Takudziridzwa Nyama
Rwanda has expressed regret over the UK’s recent punitive measures in response to the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The tiny east-central African country released a press statement describing as “regrettable” sanction measures announced by the UK over the country’s alleged support to M23 rebels fighting in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
“The punitive measures announced by the UK Government in response to the conflict in eastern DRC – where the UK has now clearly chosen a side – are regrettable. It is unreasonable to expect Rwanda to compromise its national security and the safety of Rwandans.”
The Rwandan government argues that the UK’s measures do not contribute to finding a sustainable political solution to the conflict in eastern DRC. Instead, Rwanda claims that the DRC government has more to answer for, citing repeated attacks on its own citizens, including the ongoing bombing of Banyamulenge villages in South Kivu.
Rwanda insists on security guarantees, which it says the DRC and the international community have failed to provide.
” The country is committed to working with partner states on the African-led mediation process and calls on the international community to support this effort.”
In response to the conflict, the UK has outlined several punitive measures for Rwanda’s role in the conflict in Congo, including suspending direct financial aid that does not include support to the poorest Rwandans and stopping high-level attendance at events hosted by Rwanda’s government as well as suspending defense cooperation.