Burundi announced on Thursday the closure of its border with Rwanda, intensifying the diplomatic rift between the two nations. This move comes nearly two weeks after Burundi accused Rwanda of supporting rebels responsible for a deadly attack on its soil.
Burundi claims that the RED-Tabara rebel group orchestrated an assault on December 22 near the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), resulting in the tragic loss of 20 lives, including women and children. President Evariste Ndayishimiye has directly implicated Rwanda in supporting these rebels, an allegation vehemently denied by the Rwandan government.
Burundi’s Interior Minister, Martin Niteretse, addressed reporters on Thursday, stating, “We have closed our borders (with Rwanda); anyone who tries to go there will not get through. The decision has been made.” He went on to express dissatisfaction with the neighboring country, declaring, “After having noted that we had a bad neighbor, (Rwandan President) Paul Kagame… we stopped all relations with him until he returns to better feelings.” Minister Niteretse further accused Rwanda of providing shelter to criminals who pose a threat to Burundians.
The strained relations between Burundi and Rwanda have a history of turbulence, with disputes over various issues leading to periodic tensions. The closure of the border marks a significant escalation in the ongoing disagreement, raising concerns about the potential impact on regional stability. Both countries have been urged to engage in diplomatic dialogue to address the accusations and find a peaceful resolution to the current crisis. The international community closely watches the situation, hoping for a de-escalation of tensions and a return to diplomatic normalcy between the two East African nations.
