The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has announced its intent to sue Rwanda at the East African Court of Justice in Arusha on September 26. The DRC accuses Rwanda of infringing on its sovereignty, committing atrocities against civilians, and violating international law in the ongoing conflict in eastern Congo.
President Tshisekedi, supported by U.S. and U.N. experts, has accused Rwanda of providing military support to the rebel group M23. Although Rwanda denies these allegations, it acknowledged in February that it has stationed troops and missile systems in eastern Congo, citing the need to safeguard its security due to a buildup of Congolese forces near the border.
This legal action is a result of efforts by Congolese Deputy Minister of Justice Samuel Mbemba, who has been advocating for the court to address the case. Rwanda is also facing charges before the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
The DRC is pressing for accountability and has urged the International Criminal Court (ICC) to expedite its investigation into Rwanda’s actions. The Congolese government has launched a “Justice for the DRC” campaign to raise awareness and demand justice for the victims.
Eastern Congo has long been plagued by armed violence, with over 120 groups vying for power, land, and valuable mineral resources, while others seek to protect their communities. Some of these armed groups have been accused of committing mass killings.
The violence, particularly concentrated in the North Kivu province, has resulted in widespread atrocities, including arbitrary killings and sexual abuse. A report by Doctors Without Borders (MSF) released on Tuesday revealed that more than one in ten women living in displaced persons camps in the region reported being raped between November 2023 and April 2024.