U.S. State Department Spokesman William Stevens Condemns the attack on Gen Kayumba

Translated from French (RFI)

You can attribute this to me as Spokesperson for the State Department’s Bureau of African Affairs: We are aware of the reports that South Africa and Rwanda have each expelled diplomats.

We would refer you to the Governments of South Africa and Rwanda, respectively, for more information.

We condemn both the murder of former Rwandan government official Colonel Patrick Karegeya and the reported attack on General Kayumba’s home, both of which occurred in South Africa where the individuals lived in exile.

We welcome the South African government’s prompt and thorough investigation into both incidents and we await the outcome of the investigations.

More broadly, the U.S is troubled by the succession of what appear to be politically-motivated attacks against prominent Rwandan exiles.  President Kagame’s statements about “consequences” for those who “betray” Rwanda are of deep concern. Vibrant democracies allow peaceful political opposition.  Efforts to silence dissidents run counter to Rwanda’s democratic development.  We urge the Government of Rwanda to respect the rights of members of all political parties and political leaders.