Rwandan President Paul Kagame rejects claims linking Rwanda’s army to massacres in eastern DRC, blaming local militias instead.

Kagame Rejects Claims of Rwanda’s Role in Congo Massacres

Kigali, Rwanda — President Paul Kagame has strongly denied allegations that Rwanda’s military was behind the latest massacres in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Addressing senior army and police officers in Kigali on Tuesday, Kagame blamed the violence on Congo-based armed groups.

“These killings are the work of the FDLR, the pro-Congo militia Wazalendo, and even elements of the Congolese army itself,” Kagame said.

Rwanda’s Longstanding Defense

Kinshasa has repeatedly accused Kigali of supporting the M23 rebels, a charge Rwanda rejects. Kigali insists that instability in eastern Congo is fueled by local militias and weak governance, not by foreign interference.

Kagame’s remarks reinforce Rwanda’s position that its army is not responsible for the bloodshed. Instead, he pointed to Congo’s complex web of militias, many with roots dating back to the aftermath of the 1994 Rwandan genocide.

Regional Pressure Mounts

The renewed violence has drawn concern from the United Nations, the African Union, and neighboring states. Mediators are urging both Kigali and Kinshasa to return to peace talks to de-escalate tensions.

Eastern DRC remains one of Africa’s most volatile regions, with more than 100 armed groups operating despite decades of regional and international peace efforts.

Uganda faces protests after agreeing to a U.S. deportation deal, sparking criticism over legality and Museveni’s political motives.

Public Outcry Over Migrant Agreement

Uganda is facing heavy criticism after signing a deal with the United States to host deported migrants, including Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a high-profile detainee. The move has sparked anger among citizens who say the government struck the deal in secrecy and failed to consult the public.

Legality Under Scrutiny

Analysts and rights groups argue the agreement bypassed parliamentary approval, raising questions about whether it complies with Uganda’s constitution. Civil society organizations have demanded answers, warning that the arrangement undermines both democratic oversight and the rule of law.

Political Motives Suspected

Observers believe the pact is part of President Yoweri Museveni’s wider strategy to ease international pressure while cementing Uganda’s role as a key U.S. ally. Opposition leaders claim Museveni is leveraging the deal for political gain at home and abroad, while ignoring widespread public disapproval.

Protests and Growing Anger

The decision has ignited demonstrations in Kampala and other major towns. Many Ugandans fear the country is ill-prepared to absorb deportees and warn of possible economic, social, and security risks. Protesters accuse the government of placing foreign interests above the needs of its people.

What Comes Next

As backlash grows, parliament and human rights groups are pressing for full disclosure of the agreement’s terms. The Museveni administration is under pressure to explain its decision, reassure the public, and address concerns that the deal could destabilize Uganda’s already fragile social systems.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo rejects Kenya’s appointment of a consul-general to Goma, sparking a diplomatic standoff with Nairobi.

Diplomatic Standoff: DRC Rejects Kenya’s Goma Envoy

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has formally rejected Kenya’s decision to appoint a consul-general to Goma, a strategic city in North Kivu.

Kinshasa described Nairobi’s move as “inappropriate” and a direct breach of diplomatic protocol. Analysts suggest that the appointment could be interpreted as bypassing the central government and tacitly legitimizing the presence of the M23 rebel movement, which has intermittently controlled parts of the region.

Background to the Dispute

Goma, located on the border with Rwanda, has long been a flashpoint in the DRC conflict. The city’s strategic location and mineral-rich surroundings make it a hotspot for both economic activity and armed conflict.

The M23 rebellion, backed at times by foreign interests, has posed a persistent threat to Kinshasa’s authority in the east. Appointing a consul-general without Kinshasa’s approval is therefore seen as undermining the DRC’s sovereignty.

Kenya’s Role in Regional Peace

Kenya has historically played a central role in regional peace and security efforts. Nairobi has been a key mediator in EAC-led talks aimed at ending the conflict in eastern Congo.

However, this latest move risks straining ties between Kinshasa and Nairobi, with Congolese authorities warning that diplomatic missteps could jeopardize ongoing regional negotiations.

Consequences of the Move

• Strained Bilateral Relations: The rejection threatens to cool relations between two strategic allies within the East African Community (EAC).
• Impact on Trade & Security: Goma is a commercial hub, and restricted ties could affect cross-border trade between Kenya and the DRC.
• Diplomatic Isolation Risk: Nairobi may face increased scrutiny from other regional actors who view the step as premature.

Kenya’s Reaction

The Kenyan Ministry of Foreign Affairs has yet to issue an official response. However, diplomats familiar with the matter suggest that Nairobi will likely seek clarification and reaffirm its commitment to the EAC peace framework. Kenya, a troop contributor to regional stabilization missions, remains keen on maintaining its influence in the Great Lakes region.