“Rwanda, like all countries, adheres to international law. Anyone in danger must be received and cared for by the country they flee to,” stated Ambassador Vincent Karega, Rwanda’s special envoy for the Great Lakes Region. He assured that Congolese soldiers who recently fled into Rwanda will not be forced to return to their home country but will have the option to remain if they choose.
Speaking during a press briefing at Vision Jeunesse Nouvelle in Rubavu, where 110 DRC soldiers are currently being hosted, Karega emphasized Rwanda’s commitment to international law and human rights.
The soldiers are housed in a spacious facility where they are provided with food, water, and medical care by Rwanda’s military medical team. Karega explained that Rwanda accepted the soldiers after they voluntarily surrendered their weapons upon crossing the border.
He also clarified that the future of the soldiers will depend on developments in their home country. Should peace return to the DRC, they will have the choice to return home or apply for permanent asylum in Rwanda.
One of the soldiers, Lieutenant Kaserela Tshombe, shared his account of the events that led to their flight. He revealed that he and his troops crossed into Rwanda to save their lives after coming under heavy fire from M23 rebels.
“When we realized the situation was beyond us, I ordered my troops to flee into Rwanda,” Lt. Tshombe said. He explained that his decision came after senior officers on the battlefield abandoned him and fled to Bukavu. Among those who fled were high-ranking officers, including Majors and Colonels.
Meanwhile, calm has returned to Rubavu, with residents resuming their daily activities. Unlike previous days, no gunfire has been heard in the town bordering Goma.
However, gunfire that crossed into Rwanda on Monday resulted in the deaths of nine people and left several others injured.