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Tshisekedi’s self-interview uses Rwanda as campaign ploy
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.