DRC Reaffirms Commitment to Human Rights

GENEVA February 27, 2026 - The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) reaffirmed its firm commitment to protecting all its communities and respecting human rights during the high-level segment of the 61st session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (HRC) in Geneva, Switzerland. Minister of State and Foreign Affairs, Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, addressed allegations that the DRC discriminates against Congolese of Tutsi origin, accusations often cited by the Rwandan government to justify interventions in eastern DRC. She emphasized that such claims do not reflect national policy and that transgressions by individuals are addressed under national law and international commitments. “The alleged protection of a community cannot justify violations of international law or serve as a pretext for illegal occupation of DRC territory,” Minister Kayikwamba Wagner stated, stressing that the country relies on multilateral instruments rather than taking the law into its own hands. The remarks also came amid controversy surrounding Major General Sylvain Ekenge, the FARDC spokesperson, who faced suspension after allegedly discriminatory comments toward Tutsi women. Lieutenant General Jules Banza, FARDC Chief of Staff, condemned the statements and reaffirmed the FARDC’s commitment to safeguard the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and security of all Congolese without discrimination. Minister Kayikwamba Wagner underscored that the DRC continues judicial investigations into hate speech and conflict-related offenses, cooperating with the Commission of Inquiry to hold accountable those responsible. She called for national unity, condemning exploitation of isolated remarks by external actors, including the AFC/M23 rebellion and Rwandan authorities, in the context of ongoing tensions between Kinshasa and Kigali regarding the Washington process commitments. The DRC’s statement highlights its determination to protect all communities, uphold international law, and maintain national cohesion amid persistent regional security and political challenges.