Amid escalating tensions Rwanda refuted allegations of any involvement in arming the rebel group linked to the grenade attack in Bujumbura, Burundi’s economic centre. Diplomatic relations strain as both nations engage in a heated exchange of accusations and denials threatening regional stability.
The attack, which occurred on Friday, left at least 38 people injured, according to Pierre Nkurikiye, a spokesperson for Burundi’s interior ministry.
Mr. Nkurikiye stated, “These terrorists were recruited, trained and even equipped with weapons in Rwanda and by Rwanda.”
However, Rwanda’s government rejected these accusations on Sunday, asserting that it had “absolutely no connection” to the attack and no motive to be involved in it.
A government statement urged Burundi to address its internal issues without implicating Rwanda.
The rebel group Red Tabara, accused of the grenade attack, also denied any involvement, claiming it does not target innocent civilians.
In recent years, Rwanda’s relationships with neighboring countries Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo have deteriorated. Both nations have accused Rwanda of supporting rebel attacks within their borders, allegations that Rwanda has consistently denied.
