Tensions Rise as Burundi Accuses Rwanda of Planning Attack

President Ndayishimiye's claims come amid a tense security situation involving rebel groups in the Democratic Republic of Congo, with both nations urged to prioritize dialogue over conflict.

Burundi's President Évariste Ndayishimiye has voiced serious concerns in an exclusive interview with the BBC, claiming to possess "credible intelligence" that Rwanda is planning to launch an attack on Burundi. Emphasizing the importance of peace between the two nations, Ndayishimiye referred to a past coup attempt in Burundi alleged to have been orchestrated by Rwanda, drawing comparisons to Rwanda's current actions in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

In response, Rwanda dismissed Ndayishimiye's assertions as "surprising," highlighting ongoing cooperative security efforts at their shared border, which remains closed for over a year. Despite UN reports suggesting Rwanda's support of the M23 rebel group in eastern DRC, the Rwandan government maintains its innocence regarding ties to the group and other rebel factions, including the Red Tabara, which President Ndayishimiye claims is part of an agenda to destabilize Burundi.

"We don't have any plans to attack Rwanda. We want to resolve that problem by dialogue," asserted Ndayishimiye. The president also reiterated that Burundians will stand strong against aggression, refusing to accept being victimized as seen in DRC.

Ndayishimiye calls for the full implementation of previously signed peace agreements, urging Rwanda to take necessary steps to demonstrate goodwill and respect for these accords. He stressed a need for open dialogue and signaled that both countries should work towards avoiding war, especially given the precarious situation in the DRC driven by external forces vying for control of the region's rich resources.

As tensions loom, the president highlighted that the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the DRC has affected countless civilians, with many refugees risking perilous journeys across the Rusizi river to seek safety in Burundi. Although displaced, Ndayishimiye clarified that the border is not completely closed, reinforcing that refugees can choose to return when they wish.

To facilitate a resolution in the DRC conflict, he suggested expanding the mandate of international forces to engage with rebel groups, while asserting that Burundi will maintain its military presence in the DRC until the safety of its borders is assured. As regional leaders plan to withdraw troops from the DRC following violence, the situation in both Burundi and the DRC continues to remain volatile, with the international community monitoring developments closely.