Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye has reassured representatives of foreign countries and international organizations that Burundi remains safe and secure, despite escalating tensions in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). His remarks come amid growing fears that Burundi could be drawn into the conflict due to its involvement in peacekeeping efforts in the region
During a meeting at the presidential palace in Gitega, Ndayishimiye addressed fears that Burundi could be targeted following its involvement in the conflict through bilateral defense agreements with the DRC. He made it clear that Burundi is not a party to the conflict but is committed to supporting peace efforts under a joint defense pact.
“Burundi is not a party to this conflict; it is present to fulfill a bilateral agreement between the DRC and Burundi on joint defense,” Ndayishimiye said. “Therefore, Burundi remains a stakeholder in the solution, not a party to the conflict.”
Ndayishimiye outlined a five-point peace plan centered on dialogue, regional and international cooperation, respect for national sovereignty, and international mobilization to prevent the escalation of the conflict. He called for the withdrawal of uninvited foreign forces from the DRC, the dismantling of all armed groups—including the FDLR—and urged the M23 rebel group to engage in peace talks and separate itself from Rwanda’s military.
He emphasized the need for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire to allow for humanitarian assistance and to create a conducive environment for inter-Congolese dialogue.
In his remarks, Ndayishimiye sought to calm fears among Burundians and foreigners residing in Burundi, saying that the country is peaceful and fully prepared to protect its citizens and residents, including foreign nationals.
“Burundi seizes this opportunity to reassure certain countries that are advising their citizens to leave our country due to the war in eastern DRC, as this is causing panic among our population,” he said. “Burundi is a peaceful country and stands ready to protect its citizens and residents, including foreign nationals residing in Burundi.”
His statement comes after the Burundian government reportedly expelled two officials of the World Food Programme (WFP). The move followed the circulation of internal security instructions advising staff to stock up on food, water, fuel, and cash for two weeks amid anticipated security tensions—what Burundian authorities would have viewed as alarmist and potentially inciting panic among the diplomatic corps and the public.
Several Burundian officials, including State Secretary and Government Spokesperson Jerome Niyonzima, military spokesperson Gaspard Baratuza, and Ministry of Interior and Public Security spokesperson Pierre Nkurikiye, have repeatedly assured the public of the country’s safety. They urged citizens not to believe in rumors of a potential attack, labeling them as “baseless” and aimed at causing unnecessary panic.
These reassurances, however, contrast with a recent travel advisory issued by the U.S. Department of State a week ago. The advisory ordered the departure of family members and authorized the exit of non-emergency U.S. government employees from Burundi, citing “ongoing military conflict and tensions along the borders with DRC and Rwanda, political violence, crime, and health risks.”
The updated travel advisory urged caution due to political violence, crime, and health risks, advising against travel to certain provinces due to the potential for armed violence.
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