Ex-Spice Girl Mel B’s festive break with Rwanda’s war crime suspect President Paul Kagame

11 Dec 2013 00:00

Mel B will spend Christmas with an African leader accused of political oppression and aiding genocide.

The former Spice Girl has been invited to stay with Rwandan president Paul Kagame, who could face a war crimes trial for allegedly arming Congo rebel group M23 – said to have forced 140,000 people to flee their homes.

Scary Spice Mel is friends with the 56-year-old’s grown up children Ivan and Ange, who asked her to their family palace in East Africa.

The mum-of-three said: “Christmas is different every year. Last year we were in Australia and it was lovely but this year we’ve decided to go to Rwanda. We’ve got this amazing trip planned and we’re staying with the ­president, Paul Kagame.

“I know his son and daughter because they live in New York and they’re adorable people. They invited us out there.

“We will probably have our own Christmas in LA with ­stockings, presents and a big roast dinner, then we shall go off to spend time with the president.

“I said to the kids do you want to go to Africa and see lions, tigers and bears, or stay at home and watch TV all day? It was a no brainer.”

Kagame has been praised for ­overhauling Rwanda’s economy, healthcare and ­education system since he became president in 2000.

He previously commanded the rebel force which ended the country’s 1994 genocide.

But a damning UN report last year suggested the Rwandan military had supported M23.

Head of US war crimes office, Stephen Rapp, has warned Kagame could be prosecuted for helping the insurgents carry out atrocities.

Spice Girl vs President

Mel B, 38

High: Brought us Girl Power and leopard-print catsuits.

Low: The Bo’ Selecta! character featuring a bulbous nose and animal-print leotard.

Pals: On meeting the Spice Girls, Nelson Mandela said: “This is one of the greatest moments of my life.”

Tweet: Yippieeee @JennyCraig’s Gingerbread Men recipe is perfect to do w the girls!

Paul Kagame, 56

High: Brought an end to the Rwandan civil war which killed one million people – a seventh of the country’s population.

Low: In 2012, being accused of assisting war crimes.

Pals: Visited the late Nelson Mandela at home in 2009. It is not documented what the former South African President said about Kagame.

Tweet: We stand in solidarity with our Kenyan brothers & sisters against terror.