DRC President Requests French Counterpart To Pursue Sanctions Against Rwanda

The Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) President Felix Tshisekedi has urged his visiting French counterpart Emmanuel Macron to pursue international sanctions against Rwanda for its alleged military support to the M23 rebels, reported All Africa.

A number of rebel groups including the M23 rebel groups have been vying for control of DR Congo’s eastern region, which has vast mineral resources. The M23 rebels conquered swathes of territory in the eastern part of the country since it launched its latest offensive in late 2021.

The DRC government has accused Rwanda of supporting the M23, but Rwanda continues to deny having any involvement in the M23’s resurgence. Accusations against the nation, even supported by a UN report, have led to a serious diplomatic crisis in the region.

According to the United Nations, the fighting in DR Congo’s eastern region has displaced more than 520,000 people so far.

Tshisekedi appealed to Macron for sanctions against neighboring Rwanda, saying that he remained doubtful about the good faith of those who attacked his country.

“There was no reason to justify this aggression, except for economic reasons, which were specific to Rwanda, the instigator of this aggression,” the DRC president said.

He accused Rwanda of systematic plundering.

In his response to Tshisekedi’s appeal, President Macron said he was waiting for the end of several ongoing peace negotiation efforts before considering taking any step.

“If they do not respect it, then yes, there can be sanctions,” he said without naming anyone or any country in particular.

Mr. Macron said he had been very clear in condemning M23 and those who support it. He vowed that France would be faithful to offer its role as an unwavering ally of DR Congo to defend the African country’s integrity and sovereignty.

The DRC was French President Macron’s last stop as part of his Africa trip, which included visits to Gabon, Angola, and the Republic of Congo.