php

**Kagame** Dismisses Health Concerns Amidst Regional Tensions

Rwandan president addresses speculation while peace talks loom for DRC conflict.

Amidst rising tensions in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), **Rwandan** President **Paul Kagame** has dismissed rumors regarding his health, marking his first public appearance since early June.

Health Speculation Addressed

**Kagame** downplayed concerns about his well-being, which had been circulating among **Rwandan** dissidents, some claiming illness during his absence from public events. He quipped that any health issues might stem from “managing you people,” drawing laughter during a press conference.

The president further stated, “What is the problem? What would people want me to account for? That I am not human?” His appearance showed no evidence of sickness.

Such speculation is not unusual; in 2023, rumors of ill health dogged **Uzbekistan’s** President **Shavkat Mirziyoyev**, who reappeared after a short absence (Eurasianet 2023).

DRC Conflict and Peace Talks

These remarks come as the DRC has repeatedly accused **Rwanda** of aggression. The DRC government and the M23 rebels announced plans to return to Qatar for further discussions aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict. No immediate response followed from the DRC regarding **Kagame’s** statements.

Incentives for Peace

To encourage peaceful resolutions, the **Trump** administration has suggested a potential investment deal. This deal could unlock Western investment in the region’s supply chains for key minerals, including tantalum, gold, and copper.

The absence of **Kagame** between June 6 and June 24, along with inactivity on the presidency’s social media, fueled speculation, particularly from figures like **David Himbara**, a former adviser turned critic living in Canada, who repeatedly claimed on social media that **Kagame** was unwell.