KIGALI, Rwanda — Rwanda says it will not immediately extradite four wanted rebel leaders to Congo amid accusations the rebels are linked to the Rwandan government.
Congo issued arrest warrants on July 26 for the rebels for crimes against humanity, war crimes, torture and other offenses. They include former M23 rebel leader Jean-Marie Runiga and military commanders Baudouin Ngaruye, Eric Badege and Innocent Zimurinda. The U.N. said Ngaruye and Zimurinda may be responsible for war crimes.
Rwanda's Minister of Foreign Affairs Louis Mushikiwabo said Thursday the Rwandan government must follow a legal process, and it has asked Congo's government to send legal documents that Rwanda can examine before considering extradition.
M23 formed in eastern Congo last year. The U.N. says Rwanda is still backing the rebels, but the government denies the accusation.
