Justin Bitakwira, si nous sommes en guerre avec le Rwanda, pourquoi le gouvernement congolais

The Open Border Debate: Deputy Justin Bitakwira Raises Questions on DRC-Rwanda Relations**

In a recent show on Top Congo FM, the deputy Justin Bitakwira raised concerns that resonate with many Congolese, particularly regarding the ongoing relationship between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). His remarks, which I partially understood through translations, touch on a critical issue: why is the border between DRC and Rwanda still open amid the continuous unrest in North Kivu?

Many Congolese have been puzzled by the government's stance on this matter. With tensions between the two countries running high and accusations of Rwandan involvement in the conflict in eastern DRC, one would expect stricter control at the border, if not a complete closure. Bitakwira, echoing these sentiments, questioned the logic behind keeping the border open while Kagame's troops are reportedly present on Congolese soil. This is a question that the government of DRC must address if it is genuinely committed to bringing peace to the region.

In North Kivu, the population remains caught in the crossfire of violence and uncertainty. There is growing frustration, and the people are starting to demand answers. If there are any secret agreements or diplomatic considerations that explain the current open-border policy, the government needs to come forward and explain these to the public. Transparency is crucial to rebuilding trust in a region that has long suffered from instability.

Some officials have mentioned that closing the border could have economic consequences, as vital goods like petrol and food flow through the crossings. However, if the government truly believes in the importance of keeping the border open, it needs to communicate the specific reasons. There may be a middle ground where only certain goods, like oil or essential supplies, are allowed to pass while human traffic is more strictly regulated. It is imperative that the government explains whether this is feasible and whether it could help mitigate the conflict's impact on North Kivu.

Bitakwira’s questioning aligns with what many Congolese are thinking. If the government wants to be seen as serious about peace, it must reconsider its open-border policy until there is a genuine commitment from Rwanda to withdraw its troops and cease interference in DRC affairs. This issue cannot be ignored any longer, and as the situation in North Kivu worsens, the public will continue demanding answers.

In the coming days, we must start asking the government more directly: Do they have secret deals they are not disclosing? Why is there still an open border when the region remains unstable? The people of North Kivu deserve clarity, and they deserve peace.

Until then, the lingering question remains: why is the DRC-Rwanda border still open, and for how long will the government allow this to continue?