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DR Congo accuses Rwanda of aiding armed groups in East African court case

DRC accuses Rwanda of violating its sovereignty and territorial integrity by sending troops to help armed groups.

The East African Court of Justice has started proceedings on a case filed by the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) against Rwanda, accusing it of violating its sovereignty and sending troops to support rebel groups in the country’s eastern region.

Eastern DRC has witnessed years of instability as more than 120 armed groups have fought for power, land and valuable mineral resources. The most powerful group is the M23 which the Congolese government – alongside the United States and France – has accused Rwanda of sponsoring. Kigali has denied the allegations.

“DRC accuses Rwanda of acts of aggression that allegedly violate its sovereignty, territorial integrity, political stability, and independence,” read a statement on social media from the Tanzania-based court. “The DRC argues that Rwanda’s actions have led to significant human rights violations in the North Kivu region,” it said.

Today, Court has begun hearing applications arising from a case filed by the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) against the government of Rwanda over alleged conflicts in North Kivu. @jumuiya @EA_Bunge pic.twitter.com/Bqm8VSCHEy — East African Court of Justice (@EACJCourt) September 26, 2024