The FARDC captured Rwandan soldier Private Hakizimana Iradukunda Jean on December 21 during clashes with suspected M23 rebels in eastern DRC. His apprehension has intensified accusations of Rwandan support for insurgents, which Kigali denies, pointing to DRC’s collaboration with anti-Rwandan groups. This escalating conflict raises serious concerns about regional stability amidst mutual recriminations.
On December 27, 2024, the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) announced the capture of Rwandan soldier Private 1st Class Hakizimana Iradukunda Jean during ongoing conflicts in eastern DRC. Captured on December 21 near Mambasa Hill, Private Hakizimana is alleged to have been linked to the M23 rebel group. Congolese military officials claim his capture highlights Rwanda’s involvement in supporting the insurgency, which Rwanda has consistently denied.
Born in Ngororero, Rwanda, on February 22, 2002, Private Hakizimana was among 900 recruits that underwent training at the IWAWA/Karongi Training Center in 2023, purportedly linked to preparing for operations in eastern DRC. Following his training, he reportedly entered the DRC via Kinigi and Virunga National Park, where he was placed under the command of Colonel Makenga Sultan of the M23 faction. Subsequently, he served in the 3rd Brigade led by Colonel Kabundi.
The capture has reignited allegations of Rwanda supporting the M23 insurgents, while Rwanda has countered these claims by accusing DRC of harboring the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), labeling it as a genocidal entity. Rwandan President Paul Kagame has accused Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi of an intention to destabilize Rwanda.
The situation has exacerbated tensions between the two nations, with both sides exchanging accusations that complicate efforts to achieve regional stability. The FARDC has committed to intensifying military operations against armed groups, while Rwanda insists that addressing the presence of the FDLR in the DRC is crucial for peace. Private Hakizimana’s capture raises significant concerns regarding the extent of cross-border military involvement, potentially destabilizing the greater Great Lakes region.
The ongoing tensions between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda stem from historical conflicts and mutual accusations of supporting insurgents. The FARDC’s recent capture of a Rwandan soldier highlights the complex web of armed groups operating in eastern Congo and the allegations surrounding their state affiliations. The M23 rebels, implicated in ongoing violence, are believed to receive support from Rwanda, a claim that the Rwandan government vehemently denies, instead accusing Kinshasa of collaboration with Rwandan opposition groups. This cycle of accusations poses significant challenges to regional peace and stability.
The arrest of Rwandan soldier Hakizimana Iradukunda Jean by the FARDC signifies rising tensions between Rwanda and the DRC amid longstanding accusations of cross-border military support for insurgent groups. As each side mounts allegations against the other, achieving stability in the region remains an elusive goal. The international community must pay heed to these developments, as they possess implications for the broader geopolitical landscape in the Great Lakes region.
Original Source: chimpreports.com
