A new conflict with significant regional implications is intensifying between Burundi and Rwanda after Burundi accused its neighbour of being a ‘bad neighbor’ and went ahead to close its borders. Burundi has also taken the decisive action to expel all Rwandan nationals as of Thursday, January 11.
“All borders are closed. We don’t need Rwandans here. Even those in our territory were arrested and chased away,” Interior Minister Martin Niteretse stated.
President Evariste Ndayishimiye further accused Rwanda of supporting Burundian rebels responsible for recent attacks, including the assault by the RED-Tabara group on December 22, near the DRC border. The unfortunate attack resulted in 20 casualties.
Burundi has now thrown its full support behind the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in the fight against M23, deploying around 1,000 troops to Goma.
This development may create divisions within the East African Community, as some members may align themselves with either the DRC or Rwanda, the latter of which has also been accused of supporting the M23.
Rwanda has however vehemently denied the allegations and expressed regret over Bujumbura’s unilateral decision to close the border.
“This unfortunate decision will restrict the free movement of people and goods between the two countries and violates the principles of regional cooperation and integration of the East African Community,” a statement issued by the Rwandan government spokesman reads.
Rwanda learned of the border closure through media reports, emphasizing that the move goes against the principles of regional cooperation and integration within the East African Community.
