The Democratic Republic of Congo has taken decisive action against one of its military officials following inflammatory statements that have escalated regional tensions. General Ekenge, whose full identity remains undisclosed, has been suspended from duty after making controversial comments during a weekend interview on the national broadcaster RTNC.
During the broadcast, the military figure advocated for population segment ‘supremacy’ and specifically warned Congolese men against marrying Tutsi women, whom he characterized as operatives for Rwandan intelligence services. These remarks quickly circulated through regional media channels and were subsequently amplified by Rwandan authorities.
Rwanda’s government utilized the statements to reinforce its ongoing narrative about inequality within Congolese governance structures. The timing proves particularly sensitive given the persistent diplomatic strains between Kinshasa and Kigali, with both nations engaged in prolonged disputes over security and citizenship rights.
The Congo River Alliance-March 23 Movement (AFC/M23), an opposition coalition, issued a formal condemnation labeling the general’s comments as ‘genocidal propaganda.’ Their statement emphasized concerns about systematic targeting of Congolese Tutsis, particularly vulnerable groups including women and children, suggesting these remarks align with preparatory stages of genocide.
The Congolese Press Agency (ACP) confirmed the disciplinary measure, indicating the government’s attempt to distance itself from the general’s divisive rhetoric while addressing the international fallout from the incident.