DR Congo Claims Rwanda Fabricated Video of Genocide Suspects

Congo's military disputes claims by Rwandan-backed rebels of capturing FDLR fighters, alleging the video is a strategic deception amid ongoing conflict.

The military of the Democratic Republic of Congo has leveled serious accusations against Rwanda, alleging that the nation fabricated a video to portray newly-captured rebels associated with the 1994 Rwandan genocide. This claim arises in the context of intensified fighting in eastern Congo, where Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have been gaining ground since January, notably seizing control of Bukavu and Goma, the region’s largest city. The United Nations estimates that these clashes have displaced around 500,000 individuals, exacerbating an already critical humanitarian situation.

In a public statement, the Congolese military asserted that a video purportedly showing the handover of 20 members of the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) at a border crossing was "faked." The military accused Rwanda of enlisting old FDLR prisoners, dressing them in fresh military uniforms, and presenting them as newly captured combatants to discredit Congolese forces. “This is part of Rwanda's strategy to legitimize its invasion of portions of DRC territory,” they contended.

Rwanda has historically employed the existence of FDLR forces in eastern Congo to legitimize its support for the M23. Although Rwandan authorities have previously denied backing the M23, they have maintained that military responses are warranted due to the presence of these FDLR forces. UN experts have estimated that between 3,000 and 4,000 Rwandan troops may currently be operating in eastern Congo.

The FDLR is comprised largely of ethnic Hutus who fled following the 1994 genocide, during which around 800,000 Tutsis were brutally killed. Rwandan President Paul Kagame, who led the Tutsi rebel group that overthrew the genocidal regime, perceives the FDLR as a critical existential threat to his government.

On a related note, a recent rally organized by rebel leaders in Bukavu descended into violence when gunfire erupted, leading to scenes of chaos and casualties. The M23 rebel group has accused the presidential administration of Felix Tshisekedi of coordinating the attack, while Tshisekedi countered with accusations against foreign military involvement. The African Union and the UN have called for a ceasefire, urging all parties to withdraw from contested areas as the strife continues to unfold in the region.