Former DRC Foreign Minister Christophe Lutundula has accused the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie (OIF) of failing to take strong action against Rwanda's aggression towards the Democratic Republic of Congo. Speaking during a special Space live event, Lutundula stated that the OIF has maintained "radio silence" despite Kinshasa's repeated appeals for assistance. He noted that during his tenure as Foreign Minister, the M23 rebel group resumed fighting in late 2021, prompting DRC to reach out to various international organizations, including the OIF, for support.
Lutundula recalled that the OIF's charter, adopted in 2005, emphasizes conflict resolution and respect for state sovereignty. However, he claimed that the organization has not issued a "firm declaration" or engaged in good offices to address the crisis. The former minister expressed disappointment that even now, no significant action is expected from the OIF. He also criticized Louise Mushikiwabo, the former Rwandan Foreign Minister, for allegedly aligning with Kigali's positions during her tenure at the OIF.
Lutundula discussed the DRC's diplomatic relations with Rwanda prior to the recent escalation of violence. He stated that Kinshasa had maintained normal diplomatic ties with Kigali, as part of a broader effort to normalize relations with neighboring countries under President Félix Tshisekedi. However, Lutundula suggested that Rwanda's President Paul Kagame had never abandoned his "hegemonic ambitions." The DRC's membership in the East African Community was partly driven by this context, as Rwanda is not a member of the Southern African Development Community.
The former minister also touched on the 2024 Francophonie Summit in France, where he believes French President Emmanuel Macron committed a "grave diplomatic error" by not mentioning the DRC crisis in his speech. Lutundula noted that President Tshisekedi subsequently left the session, which he interpreted as a sign that the crisis was being downplayed. These comments come ahead of the election of a successor to Louise Mushikiwabo, with the DRC presenting Juliana Lumumba as its candidate.
Rwanda has consistently denied Kinshasa's accusations, and Mushikiwabo has previously highlighted the OIF's diplomatic efforts despite its limited resources. Lutundula's statements reflect growing tensions between the DRC and Rwanda, as well as criticism of the OIF's handling of the crisis. The DRC has repeatedly called for international support to address the conflict in its eastern regions.
The crisis in the DRC's eastern regions has persisted for years, with various armed groups, including the M23, contributing to the instability. The DRC has accused Rwanda of supporting these groups, which Rwanda has consistently denied. The international community has been urged to take a more active role in resolving the conflict.
The election of a new OIF Secretary-General is set to take place, with Juliana Lumumba, a DRC national, presenting her candidacy. The outcome of this election may have implications for the OIF's approach to the DRC crisis and its relations with member states.
Key points
- Christophe Lutundula criticizes OIF for inaction against Rwanda's aggression.
- DRC seeks international support to address conflict in eastern regions.
- OIF's handling of the crisis sparks controversy ahead of leadership election.
