Rwanda's Prime Minister, Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva, has appealed to the United Nations to support efforts to find a solution to the security situation in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The situation is attributed to the FDLR militia, composed of individuals responsible for the 1994 genocide against Tutsis in Rwanda, who are now allied with other DRC, Burundi, and Congolese militias. Dr. Nsengiyumva made the appeal at the 81st session of the UN General Assembly in New York.
The FDLR militia's activities have been a longstanding concern for Rwanda, with the group carrying out attacks on Rwandan territory. Dr. Nsengiyumva emphasized that the FDLR's ideology of genocide and crimes against humanity, as well as its collaboration with Burundian and Congolese armed groups, including rogue elements, contravenes UN Charter Article 1989 and African Union Charter Article 1977. He stressed that the issue requires a political solution.
Dr. Nsengiyumva highlighted that the security situation in eastern DRC is a complex, long-standing problem with deep-rooted political causes. He noted that the issue cannot be resolved overnight and requires a comprehensive approach. The Prime Minister expressed Rwanda's support for ongoing diplomatic efforts, including talks in Doha and Washington, aimed at finding a peaceful solution to the conflict.
Rwanda has welcomed recent agreements, including the Washington accord between Rwanda and Congo, and the Doha talks between the DRC and the M23 rebel group. Dr. Nsengiyumva praised the roles of US President Donald Trump, Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and African Union Envoy, Togolese President Faure Gnassingbé, in supporting peace efforts.
During the UN General Assembly, Dr. Nsengiyumva met with UN Secretary-General António Guterres to discuss the security situation in eastern DRC and efforts to restore peace. They emphasized the need for cooperation and mutually beneficial initiatives between Rwanda and the UN.
Dr. Nsengiyumva urged participants at the UN General Assembly to support peace initiatives and encourage all parties to implement agreed-upon measures. He stressed that lasting peace requires addressing the root causes of conflicts and finding solutions acceptable to all parties involved.
The issue remains a pressing concern for regional stability, with Rwanda continuing to advocate for a peaceful resolution. The international community's engagement and support are crucial in addressing the complex security situation in eastern DRC.
Key points
- The FDLR militia's activities pose a significant threat to regional stability.
- Rwanda is calling for a political solution to the security situation in eastern DRC.
- Diplomatic efforts, including talks in Doha and Washington, are underway to find a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
