Burundi's President Alleges Rwanda Planning Attack Amid Regional Tensions

President Ndayishimiye of Burundi claims Rwanda is planning an attack, referring to past coup attempts and ongoing regional tensions. Despite Rwanda's denials, he emphasizes the need for dialogue while warning against a military response if threatened.

Burundi's President Évariste Ndayishimiye has made alarming statements regarding potential aggression from neighbor Rwanda, citing "credible intelligence" suggesting preparations for an attack. In an exclusive BBC interview, he drew parallels between Rwanda's current military involvement in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and past coup attempts in Burundi from a decade ago. Ndayishimiye accused Rwanda of attempting to destabilize Burundi through proxy forces such as the Red Tabara rebel group, suggesting that these forces are indirectly supported by the Rwandan government.

Rwanda responded to these allegations as "surprising," asserting that both nations are working together on security matters concerning their shared border, which has been closed for over a year. Although Rwanda has consistently denied accusations of arming the M23 rebels in the DRC, Ndayishimiye maintains that Rwanda played a significant role in organizing a coup attempt in 2015, further complicating the fragile relationship between the two countries.

Amid rising tensions, Ndayishimiye stressed that Burundi seeks peace and dialogue rather than conflict with Rwanda: "We don't have any plans to attack Rwanda," he assured. However, he indicated that Burundi will not stand idle if attacked and called for the respect and implementation of peace agreements made in previous years.

While regional disputes with Rwanda loom, Burundi also faces the pressing issue of the escalated conflict in neighboring DRC. Ndayishimiye lamented the exploitation of Congolese resources by foreign entities, stating that external parties are hindering peace efforts in the region. He called for negotiations involving all factions, political parties, and armed groups to pave the way for a stable future in the DRC.

The dire humanitarian situation surrounding the DRC conflict has also affected Burundi. Many Congolese refugees are risking their lives to cross the perilous Rusizi river into Burundi, escaping violence in their home country. Ndayishimiye clarified that while they are welcomed as visitors in Burundi, he emphasized that the refugee situation is precarious, and those who wish to return home are free to do so.

With mounting complexities in regional security dynamics, Ndayishimiye's remarks reflect the brewing tensions between Rwanda and Burundi, underscoring the need for careful diplomacy to avoid further escalation. He also suggested that any international forces engaged in the DRC should expand their mandate to address rebel threats effectively and ensure Burundi's safety before considering troop withdrawals.