Clashes Between Burundian Forces and FDLR in Kibira

Clashes occurred between the Burundian National Defense Force and FDLR in Kibira from March 11 to 13, 2023, triggered by the FDLR’s attempt to procure food from local residents. There are allegations that local officials are assisting the militia. The Burundian army appears to be changing its stance towards the FDLR, urging their withdrawal to DR Congo, amid ongoing efforts to normalize relations with Rwanda.

Recent reports indicate that clashes have erupted between the Burundi National Defense Force (FDNB) and the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) and Imbonerakure militia in Kibira, located in the Bukinanyana Commune of north-western Burundi. These conflicts occurred between March 11 and 13, instigated by the FDLR’s attempts to acquire food from local residents of Butahana. Allegations surfaced that certain officials from government, military, and police are sheltering and supplying the militia with provisions and firearms.

Sources suggest a shift in the Burundian army’s stance towards the FDLR, a group associated with the 1994 Rwandan Genocide, as they now seem to be urging the militia to exit the Burundian territory for the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo). Previously, numerous Burundian soldiers have allied with the FDLR as part of a coalition with the Congolese government to combat the AFC/M23 rebels in eastern DR Congo. The FDLR, designated a terrorist organization by the United Nations, comprises survivors of the 1994 genocide and has a history of collaborating with Burundian and Congolese government forces.

The timing of these clashes is notable, as Rwanda and Burundi are currently working towards normalizing their diplomatic relations. This reconciliation comes after tensions that arose due to Burundi’s association with the DR Congo’s regime changes, which pose challenges to Rwandan security, particularly given the FDLR’s history of conducting attacks against Rwanda over the past twenty years.

In summary, recent violent clashes in Kibira between the Burundian army and FDLR forces reveal a contentious shifting dynamic in the region. The Burundian military’s new approach towards the FDLR, coupled with Rwanda’s concerns regarding regional security, illustrate the complexities of diplomatic relations as both nations seek a path to reconciliation. The involvement of remnants of the 1994 genocide poses significant challenges to stability, underscoring the necessity for careful diplomatic engagement in the area.

Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw