#United States #Huntersville #Ruto #Congo #FICE

Congolese Intellectuals Condemn Ruto's Goma Nomination

The Forum of Congolese Intellectuals Abroad (FICE), representing a collective of Congolese professionals and scholars in the U.S., has voiced strong opposition to Kenyan President William Ruto's recent appointment of a Consul General to Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This action has been interpreted as a violation of Congolese sovereignty and a potential threat to ongoing peace initiatives in the region.

Situated in North Kivu Province, Goma is currently under partial occupation by the M23 rebel group, recognized by the Congolese government as a terrorist entity and widely denounced for its involvement in atrocities and the displacement of civilians. FICE argues that Kenya's decision could be seen as legitimizing this illegal occupation and undermining efforts toward regional stability, particularly those facilitated by the United States and Qatar.

Foreign Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner of the DRC responded quickly, deeming the appointment "inappropriate" and referencing the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations. This international treaty requires the approval of the host country for any consular appointments. Wagner emphasized the unsuitability of deploying a diplomat in Goma given its precarious security conditions. She underscored that any moves to establish a consulate in Goma should be taken only after consultation with the Congolese authorities.

This diplomatic conflict arises shortly after negotiations, supported by Washington and Doha, sought to establish a fragile peace framework between Kinshasa and Kigali. Experts caution that Ruto's action risks destabilizing these negotiations and may embolden the M23 militias linked to Rwanda, threatening a unified regional response, which is essential for both security and international investment.

While Kenya's Foreign Minister Musalia Mudavadi has clarified that the consular nomination is provisional and contingent on Congolese approval, officials in Congo argue that the mere announcement has already inflicted substantial damage on the budding peace efforts.

Dr. Ngoie Joël Nshisso, the head of FICE, articulated that President Ruto's decision represents an alarming shift in diplomatic norms, an attempt to normalize the control of a terrorist group over Congolese territory. He contends that by bypassing the Congolese government and disregarding established international protocols, Kenya threatens the painstaking progress made through peace initiatives led by the U.S. and Qatar, thus risking further violence in eastern Congo.

FICE has called upon the international community not to remain passive in the face of this worrying breach of diplomatic conduct. They urge the United States and its allies to stand firmly in defense of Congo's sovereignty and to reinforce ongoing peace processes, ensuring accountability for actions that might undermine regional stability.

As Dr. Nshisso stated, "Congo's sovereignty is not for sale." He further asserted the importance of vigilance against any actions that could impede the journey towards peace, security, and prosperity for the DRC.

About FICE

The Forum of Congolese Intellectuals Abroad (FICE) consolidates Congolese scholars, professionals, and advocates based in the U.S. With a global network, FICE is dedicated to fostering peace, defending the sovereignty of the DRC, and advocating for economic and social development within the country.