Published on 03/02/2025
Burundi’s President, Evariste Ndayishimiye, has accused Rwandan President Paul Kagame of pursuing an “expansionist” agenda in the region.
During a recent summit of the East African Community (EAC) Heads of State, Ndayishimiye voiced concerns over alleged Rwandan activities that threaten regional stability. He accused Rwanda of training and arming Burundian refugees and sending them into the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to engage in fighting.
Ndayishimiye made these accusations while hosting the extraordinary summit at the State House in Bujumbura, where the leaders of the East African Community gathered to discuss pressing regional issues. The Burundian leader’s statements reflect growing tensions between the two neighboring countries.
Rwanda, which shares a history of strained relations with Burundi, has not yet commented publicly on Ndayishimiye’s allegations. The situation remains tense, and analysts are closely monitoring how this accusation could impact the political and security dynamics in the region.
The issue of Burundian refugees is particularly sensitive. Thousands of Burundians have fled the country in recent years due to political instability and violence. Some of these refugees have been accused of being recruited into armed groups, and their involvement in the ongoing conflict in the DRC could have far-reaching consequences for the wider Great Lakes region.
As the EAC summit continues, discussions around security and stability remain at the forefront, with leaders from across the region seeking solutions to ongoing conflicts, including the situation in the DRC and tensions between neighboring states.
