Tensions have surged between South Africa and Rwanda over the deaths of South African peacekeepers in the DRC, allegedly by Rwandan-backed M23 rebels. Ramaphosa warned that further attacks would equate to a declaration of war. Kagame rebuked these claims, accusing South Africa of aiding the Congolese government against its people. The situation highlights a troubled history between the nations and raises questions about South Africa’s military role in the volatile region.
Tensions between South Africa and Rwanda have escalated following accusations from South African President Cyril Ramaphosa regarding the involvement of the Rwandan-backed M23 rebel group in the deaths of South African peacekeepers in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The M23 rebels have recently gained ground in eastern DRC, capturing the strategic city of Goma, prompting South Africa to issue stern warnings against further hostilities.
In response, Rwandan President Paul Kagame accused South Africa of partaking in “offensive combat operations” to support the DRC government against its own citizens. The conflict has seen the deaths of 13 South African soldiers since the renewed hostilities, raising alarms about South Africa’s military involvement in the region and renewing discussions on its historical relationship with Rwanda.
Historically, South Africa and Rwanda have struggled with diplomatic relations, marked by incidents such as the expulsion of diplomats by both nations following an attack on an exiled Rwandan dissident in Johannesburg in 2014. Despite a temporary easing of tensions after Ramaphosa’s visit to Rwanda last year, the recent fatalities have rekindled long-standing grievances between the two nations.
The friction began when Ramaphosa confirmed to Kagame the pressing need for a ceasefire and peace talks after South African troops were deployed to eastern DRC as part of a regional peace-keeping mission by the Southern African Development Community (SADC). The defense minister reiterated the caution towards the Rwandan forces, indicating that any direct assault on South African troops would be considered a declaration of war.
Ramaphosa emphasized that the M23 rebels were responsible for the deaths of South African peacekeepers, while Kagame countered, stating that the claims made by South African officials were deceptive. He clarified that the Rwandan Defence Force (RDF) is an organized military force and that South Africa’s accusations lacked substantiation.
Kagame criticized South Africa’s military role and suggested that they were not in a position to mediate in the conflict, hinting at potential consequences if hostilities continued. He indicated that Rwanda remains resolute in protecting its interests in the region and will respond appropriately to any perceived threats from South Africa.
The ongoing conflict in the DRC has its roots in complex regional dynamics involving various armed groups, with foreign countries including Rwanda and South Africa playing significant roles. South Africa has been involved in peacekeeping efforts in the region since the mid-1990s, participating in the UN peacekeeping missions to help stabilize the area. The DRC is rich in minerals, contributing to South Africa’s vested economic interests, emphasizing the necessity for a stable and conducive business environment.
The escalating situation between South Africa and Rwanda underscores the precarious nature of their diplomatic relations, brought to a head by recent military conflicts in the DRC. Both nations face strategic decisions moving forward, with South Africa needing to weigh its military involvement against the potential consequences of further losses amidst a complex geopolitical landscape. The outcome of this diplomatic struggle remains critical for maintaining regional stability in Central Africa.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
