President Paul Kagame has criticized what he described as ongoing attempts by some international actors to minimize the threat posed by FDLR militia – the UN and US-sanctioned terror group founded by extremists linked to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, arguing that the group’s history and actions are well-known and should not be ignored. Speaking during a press conference with local, regional and international media  on November 27, President Kagame said it was misleading to question the size of the militia as a way to diminish its significance. “You see, terrorists, even when

President Paul Kagame has criticized what he described as ongoing attempts by some international actors to minimize the threat posed by FDLR militia – the UN and US-sanctioned terror group founded by extremists linked to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, arguing that the group’s history and actions are well-known and should not be ignored. Speaking during a press conference with local, regional and international media  on November 27, President Kagame said it was misleading to question the size of the militia as a way to diminish its significance. “You see, terrorists, even when they are five, they can do harm—and people take that seriously,” he said. “So why would anyone dismiss the FDLR, knowing their history, and worse, knowing they are associated with a government in the DRC?” President Kagame noted that despite widespread documentation on the group’s involvement in hate speech and past atrocities, some officials continue to ask how many FDLR fighters remain, a question he says is often used to justify inaction. “When somebody asks me that question, immediately I know he is interested in covering up the problem,” he stated. “The issue of numbers is being falsified. If you want to know, they are many. That is a fact.” He added that he has heard similar arguments from several European leaders who question the scale of the threat, suggesting that such positions are intended to undermine Rwanda’s right to defend itself. The President also criticised the tone and language used in international forums when discussing the FDLR, saying that despite numerous UN resolutions, the mentions are often weak and deliberately understated. “They come saying it like a whisper. It is just mentioned in passing,” he said. “The reason is to imply that Rwanda should not be taking action against them.” The President stressed that attempts to downplay the group’s relevance reflect a refusal to acknowledge both the FDLR’s past role in Rwanda’s history and the ongoing security implications of its presence in eastern DRC.

President Kagame addresses media at Urugwiro Village on November 27

A little more informed. A little more connected.