Rwanda's President Accused of Planning Cross-Border Attack on Burundi

Burundi's President Évariste Ndayishimiye has raised alarms about a potential Rwandan military attack, asserting that credible intelligence backs his claims.

Burundi's President Évariste Ndayishimiye has made shocking allegations during an exclusive BBC interview, asserting that Rwanda is planning to launch an attack against his nation. He cited "credible intelligence" that suggests Rwandan forces are preparing for military action. The claims echo sentiments from a decade prior, where Ndayishimiye alleged Rwanda attempted to orchestrate a coup in Burundi similar to its current activities in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Rwanda has responded to these accusations, calling them "surprising" while insisting that the two nations have been collaborating on security measures for their border, which has remained closed for more than a year. Despite ongoing United Nations investigations, Rwanda maintains its denial of supporting the M23 rebel group, which has recently made substantial territorial gains in eastern DRC, supported by Rwandan troops.

Ndayishimiye further accused Rwanda of using proxy forces like the Red Tabara rebels to destabilize Burundi. "They would say it's an internal problem when it's Rwanda that is the problem," he stated. "Burundians will not accept to be killed like the Congolese." Although he voiced readiness for dialogue, he emphasized that Burundi will not remain passive if provoked.

Central to Ndayishimiye's response is a call for peace and adherence to a previously established agreement by both nations, which he claims has not been honored by Rwanda. He describes the circumstances surrounding the 2015 coup in Burundi as being orchestrated by Rwandan officials.

The Burundi-Rwanda border closure has intensified the security situation, notably following attacks by Red Tabara rebels. However, the president also addressed the ongoing crisis in neighboring DRC, attributing the turmoil to external forces that are motivated by resource exploitation rather than genuine concern for the Congolese people.

In an effort to foster peace, Ndayishimiye advocates for involving all stakeholders, including armed groups and opposition parties, to collectively ensure stability in the region. "The problem between Rwanda and the DRC is a small problem. They can resolve it without killing people," he declared, challenging the narratives of violence perpetuated by Rwandan forces.

As hundreds of thousands of Congolese flee the violence, many refugees risk their lives crossing the dangerous Rusizi River into Burundi in search of safety. Despite reports of dangerous crossings causing loss of life, Ndayishimiye denied the border's closure with DRC and expressed that refugees in Burundi are treated as visitors. "They can't say I will eat meat when you are eating fish," he remarked, alluding to the hospitality extended to refugees.

To achieve lasting peace in the DRC, Ndayishimiye believes that the mandate of international forces should be expanded to allow for direct engagement with the rebels. Moreover, he has stated that Burundian forces will remain in the DRC until its borders are secured against any potential threats.

Recent announcements from southern African leaders indicated the withdrawal of their forces from the DRC following escalating violence, underscoring the region's complex and precarious security landscape, which remains unresolved amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis.