DRC: Kinshasa breaks off all cooperation with Kigali
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has officially severed all forms of cooperation with Rwanda, marking a significant shift in their already strained relations. This decision follows the expulsion of Rwanda’s ambassador from Kinshasa over two years ago, amid escalating tensions tied to alleged Rwandan support for the March 23 Movement (M23) rebels.
The already fragile relationship between the two nations has further deteriorated since 2022, with Kinshasa accusing Kigali of providing military and logistical backing to the M23.
The rebel group has been responsible for deadly attacks in the eastern regions of the DRC, an area long plagued by instability and armed conflict.
Despite Rwanda’s repeated denials, these allegations have deepened the mistrust between the neighbors.
The Congolese government views this complete breakdown in cooperation as a necessary response to what it perceives as Rwanda’s failure to uphold its commitments to regional peace and security.
For Kinshasa, the alleged Rwandan involvement with the M23 poses a direct threat to its sovereignty and regional stability.
Rwanda, however, has dismissed these accusations as baseless, arguing that the DRC’s challenges in the east stem from internal governance issues and a lack of political inclusivity.
Kigali has urged Congolese stakeholders to pursue dialogue and reconciliation to address their internal crises.
Yet, this perspective has done little to ease the growing discord between the two governments.
Gilbert FOTSO
