Kagame is ready for conflict with the DRC in light of growing tensions and election preparations.

In an exclusive interview with France 24, Rwandan President Paul Kagame declared, “They are ready to fight and are not afraid of anything,” indicating Rwanda’s readiness to go to war with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) if necessary. This responds to claims from Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi, who said Rwanda is planning a genocide in the Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. Kagame responded by accusing Tshisekedi of pushing a homicidal philosophy against Congolese Tutsis.

Emphasizing the need to address the underlying causes of regional conflicts, Kagame also declined to confirm the deployment of Rwandan soldiers in the DRC. He said, “We have to deal with the fundamental problems causing these disputes rather than only attending to the symptoms. The deployment of Rwandan soldiers in the DRC is a complex issue linked to security concerns and historical tensions. This cautious avoidance emphasizes the delicate nature of the subject and the sensitivity of foreign opinions.

Kagame refuted allegations of a rigged election and disputed accusations of suppressing and killing opponents as he gets ready for a fourth term in the forthcoming July 15 presidential contest. He declared that his government was dedicated to honest and free elections. “We welcome foreign observers to witness our dedication to democracy; our electoral process is open,” Kagame stated.

These remarks underline the growing tensions between Rwanda and the DRC, as well as the difficulties Kagame faces as the election draws near. With over 100 armed factions battling in Eastern Congo, most for land and control of mines with precious minerals, the decades-long conflict in the area has generated one of the worst humanitarian crises in the world. Some organizations seek financial success, while others fight to protect their hometowns. Several organizations claim to carry out mass murders, rapes, and other breaches of human rights.

About 7 million people have been displaced by the violence, including thousands housed in makeshift camps like the one attacked last month. Many others aggravate the humanitarian issue by being outside the reach of relief. Deep-rooted political and ethnic differences have hampered efforts even as the world community has repeatedly demanded a settlement to the crisis.

Kagame’s resolute posture comes at a pivotal point for his leadership. Claims of human rights violations and political repression have accompanied Rwanda’s significant economic growth and stability under his government. Kagame has to negotiate internal and external obstacles as he searches for yet another term in office. He must persuade both internal Rwandans and foreign observers of the validity of the next election. Externally, the growing conflicts with the DRC provide a major diplomatic and security obstacle.

The charges from Tshisekedi and Kagame’s response later escalated the already unstable circumstances in the Great Lakes area. A full-scale confrontation between Rwanda and the DRC may have disastrous effects on the area, possibly dragging in neighboring nations and aggravating the humanitarian crisis, analysts say.

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Kagame stressed in his interview the need for regional cooperation and communication. “We must cooperate among neighbors to guarantee stability and peace. Development and enhancing the quality of life for our people should be our main priorities, he advised. Kagame’s demand for cooperation points to a potential road to de-escalation should diplomatic efforts take front stage, even with his harsh rhetoric.

The course of Rwanda’s internal politics and interactions with the DRC will be greatly influenced by the next few weeks. The world community will be intently observing how Kagame handles these twin issues as the presidential contest draws near. The result will not only define Rwanda’s destiny but also have major consequences for the peace of the larger area.