Rwandans from all walks of life have expressed sentiments of support to Gen (Rtd) James Kabarebe, following sanctions by the US government over alleged involvement in eastern DR Congo conflict. Kabarebe, who is the Minister of State for Regional Integration was on Thursday February 20 sanctioned by the US Department of Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control, a move that was challenged by the Government of Rwanda. ALSO READ: Rwanda says US sanctions on Kabarebe unjustified In a statement, the government has condemned the sanctioning as unjustified and unfounded, noting that; “If sanctions could resolve conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, we would have had peace in the region decades ago.” For the last three years, the conflict along Rwanda’s western border has involved hostile forces which on different occasions shelled bombs on Rwanda's territory, killing some and injuring many, such as the recent attacks that killed 16 civilians and wounded 177 others. The forces were not, however, sanctioned. These include the Congolese armed forces (FARDC), fighting alongside SAMIDRC troops, Burundian troops, the FDLR genocidal militia, and European mercenaries (of which 300 were recently granted safe passage through Rwanda to Romania). ALSO READ: A deep dive into Tshisekedi’s armoury in Goma and plan to invade Rwanda Rwanda has reiterated that it will maintain defensive measures alongside its border as long as there are existential threats, despite being overlooked by the international community. Samantha Teta, Policy Analyst in the Strategy and Policy Council of the Office of the President, said the sanctions are theatric, performative measures that create a circus but ultimately offer no solutions. “Rwanda's security concerns are real and pressing. Good faith actors should support the ongoing African-led peace processes.” Fabrice Rugumire, Rwandan youth and Advisor to the Executive Committee of Nyarugenge District, said that the US sanctions won’t change the reality on the ground in eastern DR Congo—where real instability is fueled by genocidal militias like FDLR and corrupt leadership in Kinshasa. “Sanctioning a man who has dedicated his life to securing Rwanda and the region is not the solution. History will remember heroes, not political games.” Evariste Murwanashyaka, National Coordinator of Rwanda National Students Association, said on his X platform the sanctions are baseless, unfair, and politically motivated. “Kabarebe is a patriot who played a crucial role in liberating Rwanda, securing its sovereignty, and promoting peace in the region...these sanctions undermine justice and disregard Rwanda’s right to defend itself. Rwanda will not be intimidated by politically driven narratives that distort the truth and undermine its progress.” Michaela Agasaro posted on her X account that Kabarebe is a highly respected leader, known for his discipline, strategic brilliance, and deep sense of sympathy, noting his key role in ending major wars in the Great Lakes region, including in the DR Congo when fighting against Mobutu Sese Seko. “Rather than being misled by those with questionable intentions, the Congolese people should recognize his contributions and sacrifices. History will remember him as a hero.” Emma-Claudine Ntirenganya, Director General in Charge of Communication and Education in the City of Kigali, said that by sanctioning certain Rwandans and M23 members, the US is knowingly encouraging DR Congo to continue persecuting Kinyarwanda-speaking Congolese. “It’s crucial to address the real issues rather than scapegoating victimized parties.” Josephine Murphy, Rwandan diaspora living in Canada, said that DR Congo needs to take responsibility for their internal problems, and sanctioning Rwanda won’t solve the real issue.
