Burundi closes border with Rwanda as conflict between the two countries escalate

A new conflict with significant regional implications is escalating between Burundi and Rwanda. Burundi has accused Rwanda of being a 'bad neighbour’ and, in response, has closed its borders and expelled all Rwandan nationals as of Thursday.

Interior Minister Martin Niteretse declared, "All borders are closed. We don't need Rwandans here; even those on our territory were arrested and chased away." President Evariste Ndayishimiye accused Rwanda of supporting Burundian rebels responsible for recent attacks, including the RED-Tabara group's assault on 22 December near the DRC border, resulting in 20 casualties.

Burundi has now thrown its full support behind the DRC in the fight against M23, deploying some 1,000 troops to Goma. This development may cause rifts within the East African Community, as some members may align themselves with either the DRC or Rwanda, the latter of which has also been accused of supporting the M23.

Rwanda has denied the allegations and expressed regret over Bujumbura’s unilateral decision to close the border. In a statement issued by the Rwandan government spokesman, it said, "This unfortunate decision will restrict the free movement of people and goods between the two countries and violates the principles of regional cooperation and integration of the East African Community."

In its response, Rwanda said it only learned of the closure through media reports saying the move violated the principles of regional cooperation and integration of the East African Community.

"This unfortunate decision will restrict the free movement of people and goods between the two countries," a statement by the Office of the Government Spokesperson, Rwanda said.

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