The Rwandan Parliament has rejected a decision made by the European Parliament, which blamed Rwanda for the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The lawmakers say the European Union (EU) ignored important facts and unfairly accused Rwanda of causing violence in the region.
The European Parliament’s resolution, known as 2025/2553(RSP), called for sanctions against Rwanda, claiming that it supports the M23 rebel group in DRC. In response, Rwanda’s Foreign Affairs and Security Committees carefully reviewed the resolution. After discussions, they decided to reject it and send their concerns directly to the EU.
Rwandan lawmakers expressed frustration that the EU failed to consider the deeper causes of the instability in Eastern DRC. They pointed out that the crisis is rooted in colonial history, unfairly drawn borders, and the ongoing mistreatment of Congolese people who speak Kinyarwanda. These issues have contributed to tensions in the region for many years.
Lawmakers also criticized the EU for not addressing the role of the FDLR (Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda), a group responsible for fueling violence in DRC. Instead of focusing on these factors, the EU’s resolution blamed Rwanda, which the Rwandan Parliament believes is unfair.
Parliamentarians emphasized that the EU’s decision ignores the efforts of African countries to solve the conflict. They pointed to the important work done by the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), which are working toward peace through dialogue and cooperation. Rwanda believes these African-led solutions should be supported, not undermined by external powers like the EU.
One key figure, Deputy Speaker Pie Nizeyimana, spoke about the history of colonialism and how it continues to impact the DRC today. He stressed that the DRC government’s relationship with groups like the FDLR is a major reason for the ongoing violence, but the EU has failed to acknowledge this. He called on the EU to focus on these facts and stop blaming Rwanda.
Member of Parliament, Odette Uwamariya and Senator John Bonds Bideri, also spoke out against the EU’s decision. They criticized the EU for taking sides in a conflict they don’t fully understand. They urged the international community to stop supporting groups that continue to destabilize the region.
Deputy Germaine Mukabalisa made it clear that the EU should have supported African efforts to find a peaceful solution. She pointed out that the EU ignored the steps already taken by African leaders to address the situation. She also reminded the EU that Rwanda has the right to protect itself and its citizens.
Jean Paul Munyandamutsa, a Rwandan lawmaker, accused the EU of spreading lies to isolate Rwanda from the international community. Sheikh Mussa Fazil Harerimana also criticized the EU for not giving Rwanda a chance to explain its side of the story before making such a serious decision.
