RWANDA’S President Paul Kagame has approved the retirement of more than 1,000 soldiers, including five high-ranking generals, signalling a significant transition within the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF). The announcement, made in a military statement on Saturday, marks the end of an era for many who have served since the country’s liberation war in the 1990s.
Among those retiring is Gen. Jean Bosco Kazura, a former Chief of Defence Staff, who has held prominent roles including deputy force commander of the African Union Mission in Darfur, Sudan, and force commander of the UN Mission in Mali (MINUSMA). Alongside Kazura, four brigadier generals, 170 senior officers, and 992 soldiers of various ranks have also been retired, either due to reaching the retirement age or the completion of their service contracts.
This move comes just a day after President Kagame dismissed over 200 soldiers, including approximately 20 senior and junior officers, citing gross misconduct, corruption, and violations of army ethics. The recent retirements and dismissals reflect a broader commitment by the Rwandan military to uphold strict standards of discipline and integrity.
‘RDF remains firm in its policy of zero tolerance towards corruption, gross indiscipline, and misconduct,’ emphasized Brig. Gen. Ronald Rwivanga, the army spokesperson, in a statement on Friday.
The retirement of these senior military figures is seen as part of Kagame’s ongoing efforts to ensure that the RDF remains a disciplined and professional force, adapting to the evolving needs and challenges faced by the nation. As Rwanda continues to assert itself on both regional and international stages, these changes within its military leadership underscore a commitment to maintaining a robust and ethical defence force.
