South African Minister warns of potential regional war as tensions between Rwanda and DRC intensify. Rwanda denies accusations of involvement in escalating violence, while criticizing the presence of SADC forces in the region.
International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola has expressed grave concern over the escalating armed conflict between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), warning that it could potentially erupt into a full-scale regional war . Lamola made these remarks during a press conference at the Cabinet Lekgotla, stating that the situation demands a unified and robust response from regional and continental organizations.
He emphasized the need for a tripartite engagement involving the African Union (AU), the Southern African Development Community (SADC), and the East African Community (EAC) to facilitate a ceasefire and a lasting solution. Lamola's warning comes amidst heightened tensions and escalating violence in the eastern DRC, where the M23 rebel group, backed by Rwandan forces, is engaged in fierce fighting with the Congolese army. Reports indicate the presence of armed groups from various backgrounds converging on the region, further complicating the situation. Lamola stressed the urgency for a coordinated intervention at multiple levels to prevent the conflict from spilling over into neighboring countries.Meanwhile, Rwandan President Paul Kagame has vehemently refuted claims made by South African officials, including President Cyril Ramaphosa, accusing them of fabricating information and engaging in deliberate attacks against Rwanda. Kagame asserted that his interactions with Ramaphosa this week focused on finding peaceful solutions to the conflict and that any allegations of Rwanda's involvement in escalating the violence are unfounded. He further criticized the presence of the SADC Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC) in the region, claiming that it hindered peace negotiations and displaced a true peacekeeping force. Kagame challenged South Africa's stance, asserting that Rwanda would be prepared to confront any aggression head-on.
Rwanda Democratic Republic Of Congo Armed Conflict Regional War SADC African Union East African Community
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