On September 15, Rwanda’s Parliament issued a strong response to the European Parliament’s September 11 resolution calling for the release of Victoire Ingabire, who faces serious charges of incitement and forming a criminal group. The message from Kigali was that Rwanda’s sovereignty and judicial independence are non-negotiable. This is not the first time the West has attempted to impose its will on Rwanda’s internal affairs; it seems to be the norm. Much disturbing though, is to accuse Rwanda’s justice system of cracking down on political figures. Despite the fact that the EU Parliament has no jurisdiction, this is outright prejudicial. ALSO READ: Why parliament rejected EU resolution on Ingabire case Rwanda’s judiciary, operating under its Constitution and the rule of law, is addressing the Ingabire case in line with legal principles. For the European Parliament to interfere in these proceedings is not only unjustified but also a direct affront to the independence of Rwanda’s institutions. Such actions contradict the very democratic values that Europe claims to champion. ALSO READ: Rwandan MPs call out EU parliament over Ingabire resolution Rwanda’s Parliament rightly condemned the resolution, because it is politically motivated, and is also rooted in the assumption that the EU has the upper-hand in African and particularly Rwandan matters. Instead of fostering partnership, this posture risks eroding trust and cooperation. True international partnership can only be built on mutual respect and good faith. If Europe wishes to engage meaningfully, it must abandon old habits of paternalism and embrace a relationship founded on equality, dialogue, and respect.
