Hybrid war goes international: Rwandan security services blacklist Pro-Tshisekedi Banyamulenge

The shadow of the war between the DRC and Rwanda, fueled by the M23, extends far beyond the borders of these two nations.
At the heart of this complex struggle lies the Banyamulenge community, a Congolese population scattered across the globe, caught in a vise between Rwandan intelligence services and Kinshasa’s political maneuvers.
Reports indicate that Rwandan security services have created blacklists of Banyamulenge living in Europe and America, labeling them “sell-outs” for their alleged proximity to the Tshisekedi regime. These individuals are subjected to pressure, threats, and even targeted attacks. Numerous testimonies speak of telephone intimidation, cyber harassment, and cases of physical assault.

The Hunt for Banyamulenge Hostile to Kigali

Rwandan intelligence services, known for their formidable efficiency, have established a sophisticated surveillance network to track down diaspora Banyamulenge considered hostile to the Kigali regime. This hunt extends from Europe to America, where individuals are monitored, harassed, and sometimes threatened to silence them.

Kinshasa and the Division of the Banyamulenge Diaspora

According to Kigali, in an attempt to counter the M23’s influence and rally support, the Kinshasa government has sought to divide the Banyamulenge diaspora. Influential figures, such as Alexis Gisaro Muvunyi, Minister of Infrastructure, and Lieutenant General Pacifique Masunzu, are used to convince diaspora Banyamulenge to support President Tshisekedi.

Creation of Competing Groups: Factions like the Banyamulenge Community Association (BACA) and the Banyamulenge Community in the UK (BACU) have emerged, exacerbating divisions within the diaspora.

Accusations of Treason and Corruption

Some diaspora Banyamulenge are accused of treason and corruption. Names are cited, such as Nyirazo Félix in Germany, Muragizi Kinwa Mufahaya in Norway, and Pastor Ruganza Emmanuel in England. These individuals are accused of collaborating with Kinshasa.

Information Warfare and Youth Manipulation

An information war rages, with accusations of manipulating young diaspora Banyamulenge. Pastors and community leaders are accused of spreading false information and inciting young people to support the Kinshasa regime.

The Situation on the Ground in the DRC

Meanwhile, on the ground in the DRC, the situation remains explosive. Clashes between the M23 and government forces continue, and the local Banyamulenge population is caught in the crossfire. Accusations of massacres and village destruction are leveled against both sides.

Kinshasa’s Strategy: Instrumentalizing the Diaspora

According to the Rwandan government, funds are being channeled to certain influential members of the diaspora to encourage them to rally other Banyamulenge to the Congolese cause. The goal: to weaken financial and logistical support for the M23 and self-defense groups like MRDP-Twirwaneho.
Manipulated Divisions, Lives in Danger
This war of influence has exacerbated fractures within the Banyamulenge community. In Europe, particularly in the United Kingdom, associations are torn between pro-Kigali and pro-Kinshasa factions. Pastors and community leaders, such as Reverend Ruganza Emmanuel or Bihonzi Rutambwe, are accused of manipulating young people and diverting funds to Congolese militias.

(This article is a synthesis of investigations and testimonies. Some names have been changed for security reasons.)

With Igihe.