When partaking in combat operations, SA soldiers are a legitimate target, says Rwandan spokesperson

JOHANNESBURG - South African soldiers are a legitimate target among all those involved in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) conflict if they are partaking in combat operations.

That’s according to a Rwandan government spokesperson.

South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers have been in the eastern DRC since December 2023.

They’re part of a Southern African Development Community (SADC) deployment.

South African leaders claim this is part of a United Nations-supported peace-keeping mission but have been seen to be contradictory in their stance on the heightened tensions between the DRC and Rwanda. 

At least 13 SANDF soldiers have died in the conflict. 

Speaking on the Clement Manyathela show on Thursday morning, Rwandan government spokesperson Yolande Makolo questioned the SANDF’s reasons for being in the eastern DRC.

“What are your soldiers doing in the DRC in combat operations? If they are in combat operations they are a legitimate target of all the fighters that are involved in that fight in the eastern DRC.”

ALSO READ:

- Ramaphosa, his officials lying and distorting information regarding DRC unrest talks: Kagame

- Countries backing DRC rebel group M23 could be assisting in committing war crimes – Lamola

- DR Congo leader says troops mounting 'vigorous' response to M23 advance