Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
Rwanda has officially severed diplomatic relations with Belgium, ordering all Belgian diplomats to leave the country within 48 hours.
The Rwandan government announced the decision today citing Belgium’s alleged interference in regional affairs and its historical role in fuelling instability.
In a statement, Rwanda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation accused Belgium of engaging in pitiful attempts to sustain its neocolonial delusions and taking sides in the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
“Belgium has consistently undermined Rwanda, both well before and during the ongoing conflict in the DRC, in which Belgium has a deep and violent historical role, especially in acting against Rwanda,” reads the statement.
The Rwandan government further alleged that Belgium was systematically mobilising against Rwanda in different forums and accused Brussels of harbouring groups that propagate genocide denial.
“This decision reflects Rwanda’s commitment to safeguarding our national interests and the dignity of Rwandans, as well as upholding the principles of sovereignty, peace, and mutual respect,” reads the statement.
The diplomatic fall-out comes amid heightened tensions in the Great Lakes region, with Rwanda facing accusations of backing M23 rebels in eastern DRC—claims that Kigali denies.
The rift also follows Rwanda’s suspension of its development cooperation agreement with Belgium earlier this year, after accusing its former colonial power of politicising aid.
Belgium has not yet issued a formal response.
As Rwanda enforces its expulsion order, diplomatic observers warn that the severing of ties could further strain international efforts to mediate peace in the DRC.
The move also marks a significant escalation in Rwanda’s long-standing grievances with Belgium, whose colonial legacy remains a point of contention in Rwandan politics.
Peter Tanyanyiwa