The Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) and Rwanda clashed on Saturday over the appointment of the next head of the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF). This conflict arises as both countries are engaged in ongoing cross-border tensions.
The OIF, comprising 53 French-speaking member states, is set to hold a summit in Cambodia on Sunday, where the decision on the new secretary-general will be made. French President Emmanuel Macron, who arrived in Phnom Penh on Saturday, has urged Rwanda to withdraw its candidate, current OIF leader Louise Mushikiwabo, in favour of a mutually agreed alternative. Mushikiwabo is seeking re-election against three other candidates, including DR Congo’s Juliana Lumumba, the daughter of the late Patrice Lumumba.
Following Macron’s request, Rwandan Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe stated that Rwanda had “rejected” the proposal. DR Congo has warned it may withdraw from the OIF if Mushikiwabo secures re-election, citing accusations that Rwanda has been backing the M23 armed group operating within its borders, which Kigali denies.
DR Congo is willing to withdraw Lumumba’s candidacy if Rwanda does the same for Mushikiwabo, aiming for a third candidate who could unite both sides. “We have called on all member states to work towards a consensus and are prepared to withdraw our candidate’s nomination to facilitate this,” said Therese Kayikwamba Wagner, DR Congo’s Foreign Minister, in Phnom Penh.
