Rwanda claims imminent DRC attack, denies destabilisation role

At a tense emergency meeting of the Human Rights Council on Friday, Rwanda’s UN envoy strongly rejected accusations of Rwandan involvement in the ongoing instability in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Ambassador James Ngangu instead presented what he claimed was evidence suggesting an imminent, large-scale attack on Rwanda originating from the DRC.

“We categorically reject attempts by the Democratic Republic of Congo to blame Rwanda for the instability in eastern Congo,” Ngangu stated, emphasising that the current situation constitutes a direct threat to Rwanda’s security.

He asserted that new intelligence gathered after the recent fall of Goma, a key city in eastern DRC, revealed plans for the imminent attack, citing a significant buildup of weapons near Goma’s airport.

These accusations and counter-accusations come amid escalating tensions in the region, where clashes between armed groups and government forces have caused widespread displacement and humanitarian concerns.

The Human Rights Council is currently deliberating on the situation, with calls for an independent investigation into alleged human rights abuses and violations of international law.