Kagame Says DRC’s Tshisekedi Has Never Been Legitimately Elected

Rwandan President Paul Kagame has openly challenged the legitimacy of Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) President Félix Tshisekedi, claiming that he has never been legitimately elected.

Kagame made the controversial remarks on Thursday while addressing diplomats in Kigali during a luncheon with members of the Diplomatic Corps.

“The person who is causing problems between Rwanda and DRC has never, twice, been elected, and you know it. You know it,” Kagame stated. “This man Tshisekedi was never elected, first, he didn’t at all. And you know it. Only that you don’t talk about it publicly, and I am talking about it publicly. That’s the difference. You know it. The second time, nothing happened. And you know it.”

Kagame’s remarks come amid heightened tensions between Rwanda and the DRC, fueled by longstanding allegations that Rwanda supports the M23 rebel group operating in eastern Congo. The DRC has consistently accused Rwanda of destabilizing its eastern provinces, while Kigali argues that Kinshasa has failed to address security threats along the shared border.

Tshisekedi first assumed office in 2019 after a highly disputed election that saw him declared the winner over opposition candidate Martin Fayulu. The election was marred by allegations of vote-rigging and backroom deals, with many observers questioning the credibility of the results. Fayulu, who claimed he had won by a significant margin, accused Tshisekedi of colluding with then-outgoing President Joseph Kabila to secure power.

In December 2023, Tshisekedi was re-elected for a second term in another contested election. Kagame’s comments appear to reference contentious issues that emerged from electoral processes.

Kagame’s public challenge to Tshisekedi’s legitimacy is likely to further strain relations between Rwanda and the DRC. The two countries have been locked in a bitter dispute over security issues, particularly concerning the presence of armed groups in eastern Congo.

The DRC has severed diplomatic ties with Rwanda in the past and has sought regional and international support to counter what it calls Kigali’s interference in its internal affairs. In contrast, Rwanda has defended its actions by arguing that Congolese authorities have failed to curb militia activities that threaten regional stability.

The international community, including the African Union and regional bodies such as the East African Community (EAC), has repeatedly called for dialogue between the two nations. Kagame’s remarks, however, may complicate ongoing mediation efforts.

The Congolese government has not officially responded to Kagame’s statements, but the comments are expected to provoke strong reactions from Kinshasa.

With tensions running high, Kagame’s bold assertion adds a new dimension to the already fragile relations between Rwanda and the DRC. Observers will be watching closely for any diplomatic fallout or escalation of tensions in the coming days.