Rwanda has described as regrettable DR Congo’s decision to expel its envoy, adding that Kinshasa continues to scapegoat Rwanda to cover up and distract from their own governance and security failures. A statement released by the government Sunday, says, “Rwanda notes with regret the decision by the Government of the DRC to expel Rwandan Ambassador Vincent Karega. Rwandan security forces at our border with the DRC remain on alert, as we continue to monitor the Congolese escalation.” “Of particular concern is the continued collusion between the Congolese armed forces with the FDLR, and their attempts to target the border area with heavy weaponry, as well as the bellicose anti-Rwanda rhetoric being broadcast by DRC officials,” it adds. Rwanda has previously warned it will not stand idly by if FARDC and FDLR continued shelling on its territory. Rwanda also condemned hate speech and violence in DR Congo against Rwandans and Kinyarwanda speaking Congolese communities. “We also continue to bring to the attention of the international community the persistent hate speech, public incitement and violent harassment against Rwandans and Congolese Kinyarwanda-speaking communities in the DRC, carried out by Congolese officials and the general public,” the statement reads in part. It adds, “It is regrettable the Government of the DRC continues to scapegoat Rwanda to cover up and distract from their own governance and security failures. Rwanda remains committed to contributing to a sustainable, peaceful regional security solution within the agreed regional frameworks, including the Luanda Roadmap and the Nairobi Process.”
