The Head of State did not mention the leaders, but his remarks appear to point toward Burundi's President Evariste Ndayishimiye and the Democratic Republic of Congo's Félix Tshisekedi, given their history of hostile remarks against Rwanda.
In January 2024, while in Kinshasa, President Ndayishimiye stated that he would do everything possible to help Rwandan youth overthrow the current government.
"In the region, people live together peacefully. I know very well that there are no problems among the citizens; the problem lies with bad leadership. Our struggle must continue until even the people of Rwanda begin to feel pressure, because I believe Rwandan youth cannot accept remaining prisoners in the region," he noted.
These words appeared to echo those of Tshisekedi, who publicly expressed his determination to topple Rwanda's leadership.
While addressing over 6,000 soldiers, police, and prison officers at Rwanda Defence Force (RDF)'s Gabiro Combat Training Center on August 25, 2025, President Kagame revisited the plans these two leaders had for Rwanda.
"When you hear people on radio, shamelessly and fearlessly, claiming they will destroy Rwanda, remove its government, impose their own, kill and save people they wish. Imagine heads of state making such utterances!"
President Kagame emphasized that statements like these serve as a reminder that there are people harboring intentions to harm Rwanda.
"We must always be prepared because the enemy comes unpredictably; we never know from where or when, but we must always be ready," he noted.
Kagame noted that these leaders eventually realized that harming Rwanda would not be easy.
"Those who shouted loudly, claiming they must harm Rwanda. I could not overlook this, but I will not disclose everything. This is where I began by thanking you [ Rwandan security forces] because they saw that harming Rwanda is not simple.
'Perhaps after resting, they may try again in five years, but it will be in vain
or even worse for those who wage war against Rwanda. This is precisely the responsibility of the RDF, the national army, and all national security forces collectively," he stated.
President Kagame added that for Rwanda's security forces to execute this responsibility effectively, they must clearly understand their duties.
"Whether you are working in challenging circumstances like I described, you must act as if you own the task. No one should hold back; you treat it as your responsibility, and collaborate with others who do the same. That is where the national army unites with the Rwandan society they belong to."
He further emphasized the importance of discipline, reminding the security personnel that it allows them to focus on duties and fulfill them diligently.
IGIHE
