A Ugandan lawyer and former member of the East African Legislative Assembly, Fred Mukasa Mbidde, has said that Rwanda should not lift its defensive measures as long as the FDLR armed group remains active.
Doubts Over DRC Commitment
Speaking in an interview with Radio 4 Uganda, Mbidde expressed doubt about the willingness and ability of the Democratic Republic of the Congo to dismantle the FDLR. He argued that the group has deeply infiltrated both the government and the national army.
He said, “I doubt the capacity of the DRC to dismantle the FDLR. First, because it has penetrated state institutions and the army. Second, because there appears to be a strong relationship between elements within the government and the group.”
Peace Agreement Yet to Be Implemented
In June 2025, Rwanda and the DRC signed a peace agreement with support from the United States, later reinforced in December with provisions on regional economic cooperation. Under the deal, the DRC committed to dismantling the FDLR within 90 days.
However, this commitment has not yet been fulfilled, prompting Rwanda to maintain its defensive posture due to ongoing security concerns.
Call for Verified Action Before Policy Change
Mbidde emphasized that Rwanda should not rely solely on promises, but instead wait for clear and verifiable evidence that the FDLR has been fully disarmed.
He stated, “If I were Rwanda, I would not rush to remove defensive measures unless there is clear, verifiable proof that the FDLR has been completely disarmed. Relying only on agreements would not be appropriate.”
Background on FDLR
The FDLR was formed by remnants of forces linked to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, including former government soldiers and militia members. It has since remained active in eastern DRC and has been a key factor in ongoing regional insecurity.
