Tshisekedi’s self-interview uses Rwanda as campaign ploy

Author: Lindah Uwase

• 2023-07-16 05:07:00

In October 2022, Rwanda’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, Robert Kayinamura, told the 11th Emergency Special Session of the General Assembly that whenever the Democratic Republic of Congo is headed for presidential elections piles of accusations against Rwanda crop up and disappear later after elections.

Indeed, DRC President Felix Tshisekedi has not strayed from the obvious narrative as expected.

In an interview between President Tshisekedi and his own spokesperson, Tina Salama, significant concerns about the state of affairs in the DRC were raised.

The arrangement itself, with Tshisekedi essentially being interviewed by his own spokesperson, is unprofessional and raises questions about the credibility and impartiality of the interview.

It gives the impression that Tshisekedi is attempting to control the narrative of his own answers and manipulate public opinion ahead of the elections, rather than providing objective answers as president.

One of the most contradictory aspects of Tshisekedi's interview is his failure to address valid concerns raised by the opposition regarding allegations of election fraud going on in some parts of his country.

Instead, he shifted blame onto the opposition, evading accountability for any shortcomings in his leadership. His behavior raises serious questions about his commitment to democratic processes and the fair representation of the people's voices.

Another critical issue that demands attention is the ongoing persecution of the Congolese Tutsi population. The fact that nearly 80,000 people have sought refuge in Rwanda speaks volumes about the dire circumstances they face in their own country.

Unfortunately, during his ‘self-interview’, Tshisekedi fails to provide a concrete solution or a clear plan on how these refugees can safely return home. His vague assumptions and imaginary policies are insufficient and demonstrate a lack of genuine concern for the well-being and safety of the Congolese Tutsi community.

In his I-ask-me, I answer-me interview, Tshisekedi insinuated that he has no problem with the Rwandan people – a typical contradiction of the facts on the ground. Rwandans in DRC have faced all sorts of mistreatment.

There is evidence of persecution, arrests, torture, and incarceration of anyone perceived as ‘Rwandan’ living in the DRC, which contradicts Tshisekedi's claim that he has no issue with the Rwandan people.

The mistreatment and targeting of individuals based on their ethnicity and nationality are deeply troubling and highlight the failure of Tshisekedi's leadership to protect the rights and safety of all citizens.

Taking these observations into account, it becomes evident that Tshisekedi is attempting to exploit the situation as a ploy to deceive the Congolese population into reelecting him during the upcoming December 2023 presidential elections.

His empty promises, lack of accountability, and disregard for human rights raise serious doubts about his sincerity and ability to effectively govern the country again.