Rwanda says it ‘takes note’ of UK’s intention to terminate controversial migration deal

By James Tasamba

KIGALI, Rwanda (AA) – Rwanda said Monday that it had “taken note” of the UK’s intention to terminate a controversial migration deal that Kigali signed with Britain which sought to deter asylum seekers from crossing the English Channel in small boats to live in the UK.

Rwanda and the previous UK Conservative government signed an agreement in April 2022 to facilitate the sending of some migrants who arrive in the UK across the English Channel to Rwanda, where their asylum claims would be processed.

But in his first press conference, new British Prime Minister Keir Starmer indicated that he will not continue with the previous government’s policy to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda.

"I'm not prepared to continue with gimmicks that don't act as a deterrent," Starmer said, referring to the deal.

Rwanda in a statement said it fully upheld its side of the deal.

“Rwanda has fully upheld its side of the agreement, including with regard to finances, and remains committed to finding solutions to the global migration crisis, including providing safety, dignity and opportunity to refugees and migrants who come to our country,” a statement issued by office of the Rwandan government spokesperson said.

Britain offered an upfront investment of 120 million pounds ($153.6 million) to facilitate the implementation of the five-year agreement.

But the deal, formally called the Rwanda-UK Migration and Economic Development Partnership Initiative, faced legal challenges in Britain.

The Supreme Court ruled that the scheme was unlawful.

British outgoing lawmakers in April this year passed the Safety of Rwanda Bill, paving the way for it to become law amid growing concern from opposition parties and charities representing asylum seekers.