The Rwandese Government has faulted the United States for alleging its involvement in the bombing of a displacement camp in Goma, in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
In a statement dated May 5, Rwanda said laying blame on them without any investigations is unjustified.
Rwznda added that they will not carry the blame for the failures of the DRC government.
“Rwanda will not shoulder responsibility for the bombing of the IDP camps around Goma, or the security and governance failures of the government of the DRC.
“Credible investigation and verification should be completed first, to establish what happened,” the Government Spokesperson said.
Rwanda said the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) placement of heavy artillery within IDP camps warnings had been issued by organisations in Goma, including Médecins Sans Frontières.
It added that the scapegoating of Rwanda for the shortcomings and wrongdoing of the DRC has become a pattern by the US government.
“The position taken by the US government raises serious questions about its credibility as a facilitator in the region, and undermines its ability to play a constructive role towards a peaceful solution.”
Rwanda said that while the international community claims to support regional processes towards a political solution and durable peace, there has been a lack of concern for the dramatic military build-up in eastern DRC, armed conflict and the resulting deplorable humanitarian situation of millions of Congolese citizens.
The Rwandese Government added that President Félix Tshisekedi and the Congolese leadership persistently threatened to invade Rwanda and overthrow its government by force.
“This is why Rwanda will continue to take measures to ensure the complete defence of Rwandan territory and take any legitimate measures to defend our country.”
The US has blamed the Rwandan army and M23 rebel group for the deadly bombing of an IDP camp in Goma, on Friday.
At least nine people, including seven children, were killed in the strike on the Mugunga camp.
The Congolese army and M23 blamed each other for the attack. Rwanda is widely accused of backing the rebel group
The US State Department said the attack came from positions held by the RDF and M23 group.
A spokesperson said the US was gravely concerned about the recent RDF and M23 expansion in eastern DRC.
He also called on both parties to respect human rights and adhere to applicable obligations under international humanitarian law.
