Kagame Warns Ramaphosa: Rwanda Ready for Confrontation

 

In a dramatic and heated exchange, Rwandan President Paul Kagame has accused South African President Cyril Ramaphosa of distorting facts and spreading "deliberate attacks and even lies" about Rwanda’s involvement in the ongoing crisis in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Kagame’s sharp rebuke was posted on X (formerly Twitter) following comments by Ramaphosa and South African officials regarding recent developments in the region.

The diplomatic fallout comes amid increasing tensions between Rwanda and South Africa over the involvement of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) in the conflict. Ramaphosa had earlier issued a statement expressing condolences for the 13 South African soldiers killed in the fighting, blaming their deaths on attacks by the M23 rebel group and the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) militia. Kagame, however, strongly disputed this version of events. 

Kagame’s Accusations

In a lengthy post, Kagame made several pointed clarifications, challenging Ramaphosa’s narrative:

1. Rwanda’s Army is Not a Militia – Kagame emphasized that the RDF is a national army, refuting claims that it operates as a militia in the DRC.
2. SAMIDRC’s Role Questioned – The Rwandan leader accused the SADC Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC), which includes South African troops, of not being a peacekeeping force but a “belligerent force engaging in offensive combat operations” alongside the Congolese army and genocidal groups such as the FDLR, which has historically targeted Rwanda.
3. Blame for Escalation – Kagame asserted that SAMIDRC’s presence undermined the East African Community Regional Force (EACRF), which had been working towards a negotiated settlement, thereby exacerbating the crisis.
4. Denial of a ‘Warning’ from Ramaphosa – Dismissing claims that he had received a warning from Ramaphosa, Kagame sarcastically suggested that any such message must have been delivered in a language he does not understand. Instead, he claimed that Ramaphosa had sought Rwanda’s help in ensuring that South African troops had electricity, food, and water.
5. Cause of Soldier Deaths – Kagame revealed that Ramaphosa had personally confirmed to him that FARDC, not M23 or RDF, was responsible for the deaths of South African soldiers.
6. Challenge to South Africa’s Role – Kagame declared that South Africa has no legitimacy to act as a peacemaker or mediator in the crisis, warning that if South Africa preferred confrontation, Rwanda was ready to respond in kind.

Ramaphosa’s Statement

Earlier, Ramaphosa had emphasized South Africa’s commitment to peace and stability in the region, insisting that the deployment of SANDF troops in the DRC was not an act of war but a mission under SADC and UN mandates. He reiterated that the protection of civilians and the sovereignty of the DRC were paramount.

Ramaphosa also called for diplomatic engagement, urging all parties to respect territorial integrity and adhere to the Luanda and Nairobi peace processes. He assured the South African public that their forces remained well-equipped and supported. 

Rising Tensions and Regional Implications

Kagame’s explosive accusations mark a serious escalation in diplomatic tensions between Rwanda and South Africa, two key players in African security affairs. The direct nature of his statements raises concerns about the potential for increased hostilities and further polarization within the region.

Observers note that the eastern DRC conflict, long fueled by historical grievances and geopolitical interests, is increasingly becoming a flashpoint involving multiple international actors. With Rwanda and South Africa now openly at odds, the prospects for a peaceful resolution appear more uncertain than ever.

As the situation unfolds, all eyes will be on upcoming diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions and restore trust between African leaders navigating one of the continent’s most volatile conflicts.