On July 12, during a Cabinet meeting chaired by President Félix Tshisekedi, Deputy Prime Minister in charge of Defence Guy Kabongo reported that while a humanitarian truce was being put in place, M23 rebels were “forcibly recruiting young people” and receiving “continuous reinforcements of personnel and equipment” from Rwanda and Uganda. This marked the first recent instance of the DRC government accusing Uganda of supporting the M23.
Accusations and Reactions
National Assembly Speaker Vital Kamerhe had previously cited Uganda as one of Congo’s “aggressors,” but the government had not officially backed his claims. The accusations came just four days after a United Nations Group of Experts report implicated Uganda in the ongoing conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The Uganda People’s Defence Forces have rejected these allegations.
Military experts in Congo suggest the UN report does not reveal anything new. Nicaise Kibel Bel, a military expert, pointed out that Uganda has had a presence in Congolese territory since the 1990s, often accompanying Rwanda. He warned that escalating tensions into an open conflict would be detrimental for both nations.
Complex Relations and Cooperation
The situation remains complex as both countries are engaged in joint military operations. Government Spokesman Patrick Muyaya highlighted the paradoxical nature of the situation, noting that Ugandan soldiers are fighting alongside Congolese forces against the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebels, who originate from Uganda. This cooperation began on November 30, 2021, and aims to curb the attacks carried out by ADF insurgents in both countries.
Ugandan army spokesman Brigadier-General Félix Kulayigye rejected the UN report’s claims, stating that Uganda does not serve as a base for the M23 but hosts refugees in accordance with UN policy. This joint operation is cited as a primary reason for dismissing the allegations of support for the M23.
Conclusion
Both the DRC and Uganda are navigating a delicate balance in their relationship. While accusations of supporting M23 rebels strain ties, ongoing military cooperation against common enemies like the ADF necessitates a careful approach. The complex dynamics of the eastern Congo conflict highlight the need for nuanced diplomacy and continued collaboration to address the multifaceted security challenges in the region.
