Rwanda’s Uncertainty: No Guarantee on Number of Migrants from UK
The Rwandan government’s stance on accepting migrants from the UK remains uncertain, with no guarantee regarding the number of individuals it could accommodate if deportation flights commence. This uncertainty arises amidst plans announced by UK Chancellor Rishi Sunak, pledging to send migrants arriving in the UK without authorization to Rwanda rather than permitting them to seek asylum within the UK.
Since the law changed in 2023, approximately 52,000 individuals have arrived in the UK awaiting deportation. Rwanda has entered into a five-year agreement with the UK, with estimated costs exceeding £300 million. Despite parliamentary approval of the UK government’s plans to send asylum seekers to Rwanda, specific details regarding the logistics and capacity for accommodating migrants remain elusive.
In a recent statement, Rwanda’s government spokesperson, Yolande Maloko, refrained from specifying the exact number of migrants Rwanda could accommodate, emphasizing that various factors were under consideration. While asserting readiness to accommodate migrants, Maloko stopped short of guaranteeing the accommodation of the entire backlog of 52,000 individuals sought for deportation by the UK, merely indicating capacity for “thousands.”
The UK government has repeatedly emphasized its intention to deport individuals to Rwanda to serve as a deterrent to individuals attempting to enter the UK irregularly. However, Maloko emphasized that living in Rwanda should not be perceived as punishment, highlighting the country’s attributes, including its natural beauty and climate.
Transport Secretary Mark Harper echoed the government’s commitment to initiating deportation flights within the specified timeframe, stressing the importance of establishing a deterrent against organized crime groups involved in human trafficking. Despite concerns raised by Labour’s Pat McFadden regarding the scheme’s effectiveness and cost-efficiency, Harper affirmed the government’s determination to proceed with the plan.
Meanwhile, Maloko refuted allegations of Rwandan involvement in the recent bombing of a displacement camp in the Democratic Republic of Congo, denying accusations leveled by the US government. She criticized the hasty attribution of blame without comprehensive investigation and consultation with affected parties, describing the allegations as unfounded and unjust.
