DRC to Sue Rwanda at East African Court for Violations Amid Ongoing Conflict

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The DRC is suing Rwanda for violating its sovereignty and committing atrocities amid ongoing conflict. Rwanda denies the accusations but admitted to deploying troops for security reasons. The DRC is seeking accountability and urging the ICC to investigate.

On September 26, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) announced its intention to sue Rwanda at the East African Court of Justice in Arusha. The DRC alleges that Rwanda has violated its sovereignty, committed atrocities against civilians, and breached international law amidst the ongoing conflict in eastern Congo.

President Tshisekedi, along with U.S. and U.N. experts, has accused Rwanda of providing military support to the M23 rebel group. Although Rwanda denies these allegations, it admitted in February that it had deployed troops and missile systems in eastern Congo for security reasons, citing the buildup of Congolese forces near the border.

This legal action follows the efforts of Congolese Deputy Minister of Justice Samuel Mbemba, who has been pressing the court to address the case. Additionally, Rwanda is facing charges before the African Court on Human and Peoples' Rights.

The DRC is calling for accountability and has urged the International Criminal Court (ICC) to expedite its investigation into Rwanda's conduct. The government has also launched a "Justice for the DRC" campaign aimed at raising awareness and seeking justice for the victims.

Eastern Congo has experienced severe armed violence, with over 120 groups vying for power, land, and valuable mineral resources, while others are attempting to protect their communities. Many armed groups have been accused of committing mass killings and other atrocities. The violence, particularly concentrated in the North Kivu province, has led to both arbitrary killings and widespread sexual abuses.