Gabon Coup: 12 Generals retired in Rwanda, Cameroon names News cabinet for Defence Ministry
In an effort to reorganize the armed forces, the Rwandan Defense Force (RDF) has retired 12 generals and other senior officers, while President Paul Biya of Cameroon has made changes to the defense ministry in that nation in Central Africa.
Both actions follow the Gabon coup, the most recent in a string of military overthrows in Africa.
President Paul Kagame has retired 83 military soldiers, including 12 generals, according to an RDF statement from Wednesday.
They are Generals James Kabarebe, Fred Ibingira, Lt. Gen. Charles Kayonga, Lt Gen. Frank Mushyo Kamanzi, Maj. Gen. Martin Nzaramba, Major Generals Eric Murokore, Augustin Turagara, Charles Karamba, Albert Murasira, Brigadier General Chris Murari, Didace Ndahiro, and Emmanuel Ndahiro.
RDF stated that Kagame also gave his approval for the elevation and appointment of several officers to take their place. The changes go into effect right away.
One of the longest-serving presidents on the continent is the president of Rwanda, who has been in office since 2000. He can continue to rule until 2034 according to a 2015 revision to the nation’s constitution.
Lt Gen M Muganga, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) of Rwanda, also met with Colonel JE ACHU, the Defense Attaché of Cameroon, and HE Hazza AlQahtani, the UAE Ambassador to Rwanda.
The RDF tweeted that “they discussed ways to improve defense cooperation between their respective countries.”
Biya Reorganizes the Ministry
Biya announced a reorganization in the defense ministry of the Central African nation just before RDF’s remark.
He, who is now known as X, posted on Twitter, “Decree appointing officials to the Ministry of Defence.”
The representative to the presidency in charge of the military, police, and air force staff was one of the positions changed.
After a coup, the president of Cameroon took office in 1982. Biya, 90, has continued to serve as president despite receiving harsh condemnation for persecution and violations of human rights.
The action on Wednesday came shortly after military officers in Gabon took control of the country, sparking outrage from world leaders and joy among its oil-rich citizens.