Peter Fahrenholtz, former German ambassador to Rwanda, criticized EU claims regarding M23 rebels and Rwanda’s role in the DR Congo conflict. He questioned the lack of focus on the grievances of the M23 and raised concerns about the involvement of European mercenaries. Rwanda’s Foreign Affairs Minister dismissed the claims against Rwanda, emphasizing the need to address security concerns and the complexities of the crisis.
Peter Fahrenholtz, a former German ambassador to Rwanda, has confronted Kaja Kallas, the European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs, regarding the EU’s stance on the M23 rebels and Rwanda’s alleged involvement in the eastern DR Congo conflict. He expressed concern that Kallas’ remarks indicated that the M23 rebels were not Congolese, stating, “M23/Rwanda must respect DRC territorial integrity, stop advances and withdraw from occupied territory.”
Fahrenholtz pointed out that the grievances of the M23 group and the persecution faced by Congolese Tutsi were inadequately acknowledged. He further questioned Kallas about the use of European mercenaries in DR Congo’s conflict with the M23 rebels, asking, “Are M23 not DRC citizens? Were there not European mercenaries fighting against them in DRC? Who will protect ethnic minorities in eastern DRC?”
The M23 is part of the Alliance Fleuve Congo, advocating for the protection of the Congolese Tutsi community. Approximately 2,000 Eastern European mercenaries have recently been deployed to support the Congolese military in the fight against the M23, alongside various local and foreign forces, including Burundian troops and the FDLR militia.
In a separate development, Kallas met with Rwandan Foreign Affairs Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe, who rejected the claims of Rwanda supporting the M23. He emphasized the security risks posed by the Congolese army’s association with the FDLR, a group with ties to the 1994 Genocide against Tutsi in Rwanda. Nduhungirehe asserted that blaming Rwanda would not resolve the ongoing crisis and criticized the EU’s misinterpretation of the situation.
The discourse surrounding the DR Congo crisis highlights the complex interplay of regional politics and military involvement. As raised by Peter Fahrenholtz, it is essential to acknowledge the grievances of the local populations, including ethnic minorities, while also reflecting on the ethical implications of foreign mercenary involvement. Furthermore, allegations against Rwanda necessitate a nuanced understanding of the security concerns involved. Only through careful dialogue and recognition of these dynamics can a sustainable resolution be sought.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw
