Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye has issued a stern warning to Rwanda, emphasizing that Burundi will respond forcefully to any provocation or attack from its northern neighbor.
While addressing residents in Bugabira, a border commune near Rwanda, Ndayishimiye criticized Rwanda’s actions and urged Burundians to remain vigilant. He referenced historical conflicts between the two nations dating back to ancient kingdoms, highlighting the need for preparedness.
His remarks come amid escalating regional tensions, particularly as Burundi has deployed troops to South Kivu, DRC, to combat Red Tabara rebels. The Burundian government accuses Rwanda of supporting this group, which has carried out multiple cross-border attacks inside Burundi.
At the same time, M23 rebels, allegedly backed by Rwanda, have been advancing in South Kivu to capture Bukavu. This development is seen as a potential threat by Burundi, which fears that M23’s control of Bukavu could give Rwanda greater influence over Red Tabara operations near Burundi’s border.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame has previously accused Burundi of supporting the Congolese armed forces based on ethnic ties, pointing to Ndayishimiye’s Hutu background and his alignment with Congolese troops fighting the predominantly Tutsi M23 movement. Kagame has also warned that Burundi’s military involvement in the DRC risks regional stability.
Despite these warnings, Ndayishimiye has made it clear that Burundi will not be caught off guard. He urged Burundians to remain prepared for any confrontation, reaffirming the country’s commitment to defending itself against any threats.
Expressing solidarity with the people of the DRC, Ndayishimiye condemned the ongoing violence in the region and assured Burundians that they would not allow themselves to face a similar fate. He also suggested that Rwanda’s strategy extends beyond M23’s potential capture of Bukavu, warning that Burundi itself could be a future target.