Rwandan Senator Says Neutralizing FDLR Depends on FARDC Action

KIGALI, Rwanda, July 6, 2026 - Rwandan Senator Evode Uwizeyimana has argued that the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) cannot be effectively neutralized without addressing what he described as its close integration with the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC). Speaking in an interview, the senator referred to the peace agreement signed in Washington on June 27, 2026, which calls for the dismantling of the FDLR and the eventual lifting of Rwanda's border security measures. He maintained that the FDLR and elements of the Congolese army are so closely linked that separating the two would be extremely difficult. Uwizeyimana said Rwanda should maintain its current border security measures until the FDLR is effectively dismantled, arguing that removing them before then would expose the country to significant security risks. He added that, in his view, any potential diplomatic or economic consequences of maintaining the measures would be less severe than the security risks associated with lifting them prematurely. His remarks come as debate continues over the implementation of the Washington peace agreement. Rwandan military officials have previously stated that the country's security measures were introduced in response to cross-border security threats and would be reviewed in line with developments on the ground.