He made the remarks on February 5, 2026, while officially opening the 20th National Umushyikirano Council in Kigali, where he addressed recurring accusations suggesting Rwanda had altered its position on the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Responding to claims that Rwanda has admitted involvement in Congo after previously denying it, President Kagame said such narratives lack any factual basis.

“People say we denied being in Congo and now we have accepted it. That is simply nonsense,” he said.

President Kagame emphasized that Rwanda has consistently explained its security posture, but some actors deliberately refuse to listen. He noted that repeated questions about Rwanda’s presence in Congo ignore the fundamental issue that should instead be examined.

“Whenever I am asked whether Rwanda is in Congo, my response is simple: if you want to ask that question, first explain why Rwanda would go to Congo. You will find the answer yourself,” he stated.

He recalled that for over three decades, Rwanda has continuously raised concerns about insecurity originating from eastern Congo, particularly the presence of armed groups hostile to Rwanda. However, instead of addressing those threats, critics have repeatedly focused on accusing Rwanda.

“For more than thirty years, we have talked about insecurity coming from Congo, yet the only question we keep hearing is: ‘Are you in Congo? Are you in Congo?’” he said.

President Kagame warned that accepting such accusations would unfairly shift the entire burden of Congo’s long-standing problems onto Rwanda.

“The moment you say ‘yes’, it becomes a global issue. Every other problem is ignored, and all of Congo’s challenges are dumped on your head,” he explained.

He also shared an encounter with an international journalist who repeatedly pressed him on the same issue.

“I remember a journalist who kept asking whether Rwanda was in Congo. I told him, ‘I don’t know.’ That may not be a complete answer, but at least it doesn’t land me in court,” Kagame remarked.

In conclusion, President Kagame reaffirmed Rwanda’s ability to safeguard its own security, while rejecting responsibility for Congo’s internal challenges.

“Rwanda can carry its own burden and protect its security, but it cannot continue to be blamed for problems it did not create,” he said.

The remarks came as the National Umushyikirano Council continues to serve as a key platform for dialogue on national priorities, including security, regional relations, and Rwanda’s future direction.