DRC: SANDF denies intoxication by Rwandan media

Rwandan authorities, facing international criticism for their actions in eastern DRC, are resorting to deception, propaganda, and manipulation to maintain their stance. In recent days, certain media outlets have been actively spreading false information across various platforms, claiming that South Africa’s military support, under the auspices of SADC, has aligned with the M23 rebel group.

According to these reports, South African soldiers deployed in the region were purportedly ill-equipped and unprepared, leading to their alleged surrender to M23 rebels in eastern DRC.

This misinformation is aimed at sowing discord and confusion. However, the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has vehemently refuted these unfounded allegations from pro-Rwandan media outlets on Wednesday, April 3rd.

It’s evident that Rwanda is uneasy about South Africa’s military assistance under SADC in DRC.

Rwandan President Paul Kagame recently criticized South Africa’s intervention in DRC against the M23, arguing that this militia, supported by the Rwandan army, is fighting for its rights to Congolese nationality.

In response, Rwandan media outlets are publishing articles to undermine the efforts of the South African contingent stationed in Goma, North Kivu.

In a firm rebuttal, the South African military has pledged to uphold its reputation and integrity. «The convoluted article published by an anonymous correspondent in Washington is dismissed with the disdain it warrants. SANDF takes these attempts to discredit the defense forces seriously and will not allow its hard-earned reputation to be tarnished», remarked Siphiwe Dlamini, head of communication for the Ministry of Defence.

Overall, having failed to block the deployment of the SAMIRDC (SADC Mission in DRC), Rwanda is now resorting to spreading disinformation.

Nonetheless, the South African National Defence Force is resolute in countering Rwanda’s destructive narrative and protecting its reputation.

Sam GANFAT