Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye has issued a stern warning to Rwanda, declaring that Burundi will retaliate against any aggression from its northern neighbor.
Speaking in Bugabira, a border commune near Rwanda, Ndayishimiye described Rwanda as a “bad neighbor” and urged Burundians to remain prepared for any possible confrontation. His remarks, broadcast on local media, referenced historical clashes between the two nations and emphasized Burundi’s resolve to protect its sovereignty.
“Whoever attacks us, we will attack him,” Ndayishimiye stated. “Start preparing and do not be afraid.” His comments come amid escalating regional tensions, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where Burundi has deployed troops to combat the Red Tabara rebel group. Burundi accuses Rwanda of supporting the rebels, who have carried out multiple cross-border attacks inside Burundian territory.
At the same time, Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have been making territorial gains in South Kivu, DRC, with the apparent goal of capturing Bukavu. This strategic city’s fall could give Rwanda increased influence near Burundi’s borders, further intensifying security concerns in the region. Burundi views the M23 advance as a potential threat, fearing it could strengthen Rwanda’s support for Red Tabara rebels operating near Burundi.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame has previously accused Burundi of backing the Congolese military “on ethnic grounds.” He was referring to Ndayishimiye, an ethnic Hutu, supporting Congolese troops in their battle against the primarily Tutsi-led M23 rebels. Kagame has also warned that Burundi’s military presence in the DRC could destabilize the region.
Despite these tensions, Ndayishimiye made it clear that Burundi will not hesitate to defend itself. “I will tell you this clearly: do not let your guard down! Whoever comes to provoke us, we will respond in the same way,” he said. His strong rhetoric signals Burundi’s commitment to countering any perceived threats from Rwanda.
The Burundian leader also voiced solidarity with the people of the DRC, condemning the violence that has plagued the country. He expressed outrage over the ongoing killings, vowing that Burundians would not allow themselves to suffer a similar fate. “We, the Burundians, will never accept to die like the Congolese. Never! Imagine people being killed like goats when there are men capable of acting?” he said.
Ndayishimiye has also claimed that Rwanda’s ambitions extend beyond the M23’s offensive in Bukavu. He warned that Kigali’s ultimate plan involves using the conflict in the DRC as a stepping stone to launch an attack on Burundi. His remarks underscore the deep mistrust between the two nations and highlight the growing uncertainty surrounding the security situation in the Great Lakes region.
