In a strategic shake-up of their security forces, Rwanda and Cameroon have recently introduced substantial changes affecting senior military personnel, signaling a shift in the dynamics of their armed forces.
President Paul Kagame of Rwanda has orchestrated a significant transformation within the nation’s security forces, marked by the retirement of numerous soldiers and the advancement of young personnel within the security framework.
Alongside these retirements, a fresh wave of new generals has been appointed to take charge of army divisions stationed throughout the country.
The Rwanda Defense Force (RDF) released an official statement unveiling President Kagame’s endorsement of the retirement of twelve generals, eighty-three senior officers, and six junior officers.
Additionally, eighty-six senior non-commissioned officers are set to step down. Moreover, a total of 678 soldiers have concluded their service contracts, while 160 others have been medically discharged due to various reasons.
Among the notable figures retiring are veterans of Rwanda’s historic 1994 liberation war, including Gen. James Kabarebe, Gen. Fred Ibingira, and Lt. Gen. Charles Kayonga. Both Gen. Kabarebe and Lt. Gen. Kayonga have previously held the distinguished position of chief of defense staff of the Rwandan army.
In a synchronized move, President Kagame has also promoted several young officers to the rank of colonel and assigned new generals to lead critical military divisions.
Notable retirees include Lt. Gen. Frank Mushyo Kamanzi, who currently serves as Rwanda’s ambassador to Russia, and Maj. Gen. Albert Murasira, a former defense minister.
June witnessed President Kagame’s appointment of Juvenal Marizamunda as the new defense minister, succeeding Albert Murasira, who had been in the role since 2018.
By xamse
August 31, 2023
