Tensions between South Africa and Rwanda have reached new heights as Rwandan President Paul Kagame issued a strong response to South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, accusing him of misrepresenting facts.
What stood out in Kagame’s late-night post on X, however, was his concluding remark. He stated, “If South Africa wishes to support peaceful resolutions, that is welcome, but it is not in a position to assume the role of a mediator or peacemaker.
He continued, “And should South Africa opt for confrontation, Rwanda is prepared to address the matter accordingly at any time.”
Earlier, Ramaphosa had posted a lengthy message on X expressing grief over the deaths of 13 South African soldiers, commending their dedication to peacekeeping efforts.
“The ongoing conflict is a result of the escalation by the M23 rebel group and Rwanda Defence Force (RDF), which are engaging the Armed Forces of the DRC (FARDC) and attacking peacekeepers deployed under the SADC Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC),” Ramaphosa stated.
On behalf of the South African government and its citizens, Ramaphosa extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, acknowledging the fallen soldiers’ bravery and commitment to peace.
He also confirmed that arrangements were in place to bring back the remains of the deceased South African National Defence Force (SANDF) personnel.
“The attacks on peacekeepers also resulted in casualties among SAMIDRC personnel from other contributing nations, including Malawi and Tanzania, as well as members of the UN Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO) brigade. We recognize and mourn all the lives lost, offering our condolences to their families, governments, and nations,” he said.
However, it was Ramaphosa’s characterization of the Rwandan Defence Force as a “militia” that provoked Kagame’s ire.
Kagame noted that he had engaged in two discussions with Ramaphosa this week regarding the situation in Eastern DRC, including one earlier that Thursday.
“What has been publicly stated by South African officials and President Ramaphosa regarding these discussions is filled with distortions, direct attacks, and even falsehoods. When words shift so significantly from a private conversation to a public declaration, it raises concerns about how these critical matters are being handled.
“The Rwanda Defence Force is a national army, not a militia. SAMIDRC is not a peacekeeping force; it was sanctioned by SADC as a combat force conducting offensive operations in support of the DRC government against its own citizens. Additionally, it collaborates with groups such as the FDLR, which targets Rwanda and has even threatened to extend the conflict into Rwandan territory,” Kagame asserted.
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