FILE PHOTO: Soldiers from the Rwandan security forces are seen near the Afungi natural gas site, Mozambique September 22, 2021. REUTERS/Baz Ratner/File PhotoSource: REUTERS
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is calling for the immediate withdrawal of Rwandan forces from its territory.
According to Human Rights Minister Chantal Chambu Mwavita the presence of the troops in the country is unnecessary and a violation of their sovereignty.
She noted that attacks by Rwandan troops and the M23 rebel group are worsening the ongoing crisis in the country.
“We simply ask that they go home and leave us alone because we have never had problems with them,” she told Global South World during the Crans Montana Forum in Geneva.
Mwavita further urged the United Nations and other countries to pressure Rwanda to withdraw its forces, to prevent further atrocities from their camp.
“Pressure from countries and members of the United Nations can also play a role so that Rwandans can leave our territory,” she said. “And because we don’t do it, we let a neighbouring country enter another country to go and commit massacres. The other states are supposed to help us find the solution in solidarity,” she added.
Eastern DRC has faced years of conflict, with millions displaced and critical resources plundered. The DRC government has also criticised multinational companies for profiting from illegally mined “blood minerals.”
The minister believes a united effort from the global community will help resolve the crisis and safeguard the rights of Congolese citizens.