Kigali, Rwanda — The Rwandan government has expressed its approval following the British parliament's recent endorsement of the migrant deportation bill, a legislation poised to facilitate the deportation of certain migrants from the UK to Rwanda.
The bill, which faced extensive deliberations and opposition, was finally passed late Monday, two years after its initial proposal.
Rwandan government spokesperson Alaine Mukuralinda affirmed on Tuesday that Rwanda is prepared to begin receiving migrants as stipulated in the partnership with the UK.
"This partnership has been there for two years and it has a budget that will look after the migrants when they arrive in Rwanda," Mukuralinda stated. He emphasized the readiness of his country to provide the necessary support including accommodation and medical assistance to the migrants upon their arrival.
The approval of this legislation comes amid tragic circumstances, as five migrants perished just hours after the act's passage, while attempting to cross the English Channel. Mukuralinda highlighted that the Rwanda plan aims to offer a viable solution to prevent such perilous journeys and tragic losses of life.
Despite the Rwandan government's support for the plan, it continues to face staunch opposition from human rights organizations, which argue that the policy is unethical and inhumane. These groups have committed to persist in their efforts to combat the policy's implementation.
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has announced that the first deportation flights to Rwanda are scheduled to commence in July, marking a significant step forward in the policy's rollout.
No migrants have yet been sent to Rwanda under this new legislation, but the Rwandan government's statement indicates their readiness to implement the plan as soon as the UK begins transfers.
Related News
UK Civil Servants' Union Challenges Rwanda Asylum Plan Legality
May 02, 2024
UK Initiates Voluntary Return of Asylum Seekers to Rwanda with One Set to be Flown
May 01, 2024
Macron Calls on Rwanda to Cease Support for M23 Rebels in Eastern Congo
Apr 30, 2024