Backed by a new treaty between London and Kigali which provides for the payment of substantial sums to Rwanda in exchange for welcoming migrants, the text aimed to respond to the conclusions of the Supreme Court, which judged the initial project illegal last November. In particular, it defines Rwanda as a safe third country. However, if Rwanda presents itself as one of the most stable countries on the African continent, its president Paul Kagame is accused of governing in a climate of fear, stifling dissent and freedom of expression.
The House of Lords, where the Conservatives do not have a majority, delayed the final adoption of the text by constantly sending it back to the House of Commons with amendments, which were in turn systematically rejected by the deputies. In the end, the upper house, whose members are not elected, decided not to amend the text anymore, guaranteeing its entry into force.
Rishi Sunak assured that his government was “ready” to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda within 10 to 12 weeks, once the law was adopted. The issue is also electoral for the Prime Minister.
