Open Letter to President Paul Kagame

 Open Letter to President Paul Kagame

Dear President Kagame,

I write to you as a concerned observer of the Great Lakes region, troubled by the continued aggression of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. There is no justification for the invasion of DRC territory—particularly in the North and South Kivu regions—based on the purported threat of the FDLR, a threat that, in reality, is minimal and does not endanger Rwanda.

The rationale that the defence of a small ethnic community—the Tutsi—in DRC necessitates military intervention is deeply problematic. The DRC is a nation of remarkable ethnic diversity, home to approximately 450 distinct ethnic groups. The Tutsi community in the DRC has long been integrated into its society, contributing to its economic, military, and administrative institutions. Numerous examples across various sectors confirm that they are thriving in peaceful coexistence with their fellow citizens.

Furthermore, it is concerning that your military actions in the DRC appear aimed at expanding Rwandan territory and securing control over the rich mineral resources of the Kivu regions. A sovereign nation has every right to defend itself within its borders without resorting to interventions in neighbouring countries. I respectfully remind you that the actions undertaken in DRC contravene the fundamental principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter—particularly Article 2(4), which obligates all member states to refrain from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state.

In light of these concerns, I urge you to reconsider your nation’s policy and withdraw military forces from the DRC. Allow the people of the DRC to enjoy peace and to determine their own future without external coercion. A commitment to securing peace at home, while respecting the territorial integrity of neighbouring countries, is not only in the best interest of regional stability but also upholds the principles of justice and mutual respect as laid out in international law.

Sincerely,

African Rights Alliance, London, UK.