President Paul Kagame dismissed the criticisms by European and U.S. leaders who constantly lecture Rwanda, warning they could take him away—but he warned them they shouldn’t expect to succeed.
He made these remarks late evening while hosting a concert marking the 31st Liberation Day, attended by diverse groups.
The occasion came amid nearly four years of conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, where its military has been fighting the M23 rebel group.
This conflict triggered international attention and sanctions against Rwanda from many Western countries, accusing it of supporting the Rwandan-speaking Congolese rebel group.
President Kagame stated that since the start of the Congo war, Rwanda has never allowed issues with the FDLR Interahamwe across the border to be hidden. Instead of acknowledging that, foreign nations have turned their attention on Rwanda, accusing it of prolonging the war in Congo to exploit its mineral resources.
He emphasized that those who accuse Rwanda of safeguarding its security with measures are the ones plundering Congolese minerals.
President Kagame then mocked the European, American countries and international organizations for their empty threats of sanctions and lecturing:
“These rich foreign countries talk nonsense, warning people about ‘human rights’, saying they can take Kagame away. Where would you take me? From where? And then they begin: Sanctions on James Kabarebe, sanctions on officers—what sanctions? You’re crazy, absolutely crazy!”
He continued:
“Charity starts somewhere, it starts by teaching. Kids, because they come from Europe or America or Canada, everywhere they teach. What lessons? What lesson do you deserve to teach me about my life, my country, my people? That is outright audacity. We cannot be treated in such a manner.”
President Kagame said there are those who have not understood Rwanda’s message, and he remains waiting to see what they will do next.
