By Spy Uganda
In a powerful and uncompromising speech, President Paul Kagame of Rwanda spoke out against the ongoing crisis in the Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), addressing the Peace and Security Council of the African Union (AU). His remarks were not only a call for action but also a stern reminder of Rwanda’s commitment to its sovereignty and its right to live in peace without external interference. Kagame’s words were a sharp critique of both the international community’s approach to the situation and the Congolese government’s responsibility in managing its own internal issues.
Kagame began by addressing the pervasive culture of blame and false narratives surrounding the conflict in the region. He was blunt in stating that if blaming others, giving empty speeches, and spreading lies were solutions, the crisis would have been resolved long ago. His frustration with these tactics was evident: “If the blame game, nice speeches, lies, being shameless, were the solution to this problem, it would have ended long ago. We wouldn’t have this problem. We have people who tell lies without any reason.” This remark encapsulated his growing impatience with the tendency to point fingers while failing to take meaningful action.
At the core of Kagame’s speech was his defense of Rwanda’s history and its sovereignty. He fiercely rejected the notion that the FDLR (Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda), a rebel group operating in the DRC, should be downplayed or trivialized. For Kagame, the existence of this group and its impact on Rwanda’s past is not something to be dismissed. He declared, “How can FDLR not exist in the minds of some people? Or why is it something that is supposed to be trivialized? When you trivialize that; you trivialize my history and I am not going to accept it. It doesn’t matter who you are.”
The president’s commitment to the right of Rwandans to live in peace was unyielding. He emphasized that Rwanda would never beg for permission to exist or to secure its future. “I am not seeking any favor from anybody in this room to be given permission for me to live or for my people to live? Absolutely not. I will live by the fact that it is my right. Just that,” he asserted. Kagame made it clear that no external force could dictate Rwanda’s destiny, especially when it comes to the fundamental right to live.
Kagame also delivered a pointed critique of the Congolese government’s approach to its own problems. He expressed frustration with how Congo often shifted the blame for its troubles to external forces, particularly Rwanda, instead of taking responsibility for its internal issues. “So, when I am listening to some people saying these things; when does Congo take responsibility for its own mess? How does Congo think all their problems come from outside, and therefore they outsource solutions for their problems?” Kagame questioned, underscoring his belief in the need for countries to face their own challenges head-on.
One of the most striking parts of the speech was when Kagame acknowledged the reality of Rwanda’s situation. While his country may be small and poor, it is resolute in its commitment to its own survival and peace. “As I told you, we are a small country, we are a poor country, but when it comes to the right to live, don’t you be mistaken. I am not begging, I will not beg anyone,” he stated defiantly. This declaration not only reinforced Rwanda’s right to exist peacefully but also highlighted the resolve of a nation that refuses to be cowed by its challenges.
President Kagame’s speech was more than just a political statement; it was a declaration of dignity, responsibility, and sovereignty. He called on both the international community and the Congolese government to take accountability and face the realities of the situation in the region, without relying on excuses or external scapegoats. As the security situation in Eastern DRC continues to unfold, Kagame’s words serve as a reminder of the importance of self-determination and the need for leaders to take ownership of their countries’ futures.
